New US Entry and Exit Rules for Non-Citizens
- By Fileright
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The United States is preparing to introduce a major change in how it tracks the movement of non-citizens across its borders — a move that will significantly affect foreign nationals and even lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders). Beginning December 26, 2025, the US government will require all non-citizens, including Green Card holders, to undergo facial recognition and biometric checks at every entry and exit point — whether by air, land, or sea.
This new system, introduced by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and implemented by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), is designed to strengthen national security, prevent identity fraud, and track visa overstays. However, it also brings important implications for long-term residents who have not yet taken the step toward US citizenship.
What the New Rule Means
Under the updated regulations, CBP officers will capture photographs and biometric information from nearly all non-citizens when they enter or leave the United States.
Previously, certain age groups — such as travelers under 14 or over 79 — were exempt from biometric checks. But starting in late 2025, these exemptions will no longer apply. Everyone, regardless of age, will be required to participate in the process.
While facial recognition technology is already in use at most major US airports for international flights, this rule expands it to every port of entry, including land crossings and seaports. In other words, biometric verification will become a standard requirement for all non-citizens entering or exiting the country.
Why the US Is Making This Change
The main purpose of this rule is to enhance border security and reduce visa overstays. According to a 2023 report by the Congressional Research Service, visa overstays account for nearly 42% of the estimated 11 million unauthorized immigrants in the US.
By tracking arrivals and departures using facial recognition and fingerprint data, CBP aims to quickly identify travelers who remain in the country after their authorized stay has expired. DHS believes this automated entry-exit system — first mandated by Congress back in 1996 — will finally provide a complete record of who enters and leaves the country, strengthening both immigration control and national safety.
CBP estimates that this system could be fully operational within three to five years at all commercial airports and seaports across the United States.
How It Works
The system will create a secure image database for each traveler. It will match new photographs taken by border officers with existing images from passports, travel documents, and prior entries.
Every time a non-citizen arrives or departs, the CBP will automatically verify their identity and update their travel record. This makes it far harder for individuals to travel under false identities or use fraudulent documents — one of the government’s key objectives in tightening border security.
Concerns and Controversy
While the DHS emphasizes the security benefits, civil rights organizations and privacy advocates have raised questions about accuracy and fairness.
A 2024 US Commission on Civil Rights report found that facial recognition systems tend to show higher error rates when identifying Black individuals and other minorities, leading to potential bias or misidentification.
Critics like Cody Venzke, senior policy counsel at the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), argue that this technology “is unreliable, disproportionately harms people of color, and serves as the foundation for a perpetual surveillance state.”
Supporters, however, maintain that the system’s accuracy has improved significantly in recent years and that it plays an essential role in protecting national security.
What This Means for Green Card Holders and Other Non-Citizens
For Green Card holders — who are already under certain legal obligations, such as carrying valid proof of permanent residency at all times — the introduction of mandatory biometric checks marks another step toward stricter monitoring and documentation requirements.
Although the regulation doesn’t change your immigration status, it does mean that every international trip will involve detailed verification and tracking. Over time, systems like these can increase the administrative burden and scrutiny faced by non-citizens traveling in and out of the United States.
Why Now Is the Time to Apply for US Citizenship
If you are a Green Card holder, this development is a reminder that citizenship offers the strongest protection and peace of mind. US citizens are not subject to these entry-exit biometric checks in the same way non-citizens are, and they enjoy full travel rights, voting privileges, and legal protections.
Applying for citizenship not only helps you avoid increasing travel restrictions but also secures your place in the country you’ve built your life in.
With immigration policies evolving and border systems becoming more surveillance-oriented, there’s never been a better time to complete your journey from permanent resident to full citizen.
Take Action Now
If you’re eligible for US citizenship, begin the process today. Preparing your application early ensures you’re ready before these new border rules take effect in 2025.
Our expert team can help you review eligibility, prepare your application, and avoid delays — so you can confidently take the next step toward becoming a US citizen.
