Why Is the US Enforcing Mandatory Biometric Screening for All Foreign Nationals?
About the New US Biometric Rule
The United States has begun implementing a sweeping border security reform that mandates biometric data collection — including facial recognition — from all foreign nationals entering or leaving the country. This new regulation, published in the Federal Register on October 27, 2025, covers air, sea, and land ports of entry, signaling one of the most comprehensive security measures in modern travel history.
Key highlights of the rule
- Mandatory Biometric Collection: Applies to all foreign nationals, including children and elderly individuals, at entry and exit points.
- Exemptions: US citizens and nationals are exempt. US-born children of foreign nationals may also be excluded.
- Data Verification: Biometric data captured on arrival will be matched again at departure to detect discrepancies or overstays.
- Scope: Covers airports, seaports, and land crossings — no exceptions based on age, nationality, or language.
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Impact on travelers and residents
The most notable aspect of this regulation is that Green Card holders are not exempt. Despite their permanent resident status, they remain categorized as foreign nationals under US law. Hence, they too will undergo biometric screening during both entry and exit. Any discrepancies may trigger detainment, denial of re-entry, or deportation proceedings.
On the other hand, US citizens will not be subject to this process. However, children born in the US to foreign nationals will generally be exempt from biometric verification.
How it compares with India’s e-Arrival system
While India introduced its e-Arrival Card system in October 2025 to streamline passenger processing, it remains primarily procedural. It does not require biometric uploads or mandatory facial verification. In contrast, the US system is invasive and data-intensive — integrating arrival and departure data for real-time tracking of each traveler. India’s system prioritizes efficiency, whereas the US model prioritizes national security and immigration control.
Why this change matters globally
- Enhanced Security: Aims to curb visa overstays and detect identity fraud.
- Data Accuracy: Ensures verified tracking of all non-citizen travelers entering and exiting the US.
- Global Trend: Follows similar biometric adoption patterns in Europe, Singapore, and the Middle East.
- Privacy Concerns: Raises questions on data storage, misuse, and surveillance transparency.
For sectoral implications on travel, airlines, and digital ID infrastructure companies, explore our daily insights at Indian-Share-Tips.com.
SWOT analysis of the US biometric policy
| Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|
| • Enhances national security • Reduces visa overstays and document fraud |
• Raises privacy concerns • Implementation cost and operational complexity |
| Opportunities | Threats |
| • Sets global benchmark for border integrity • Boosts confidence in lawful immigration |
• Potential misuse of biometric data • Risk of false positives or system errors |
Investor Takeaway: The mandatory biometric rule underscores the global shift toward data-driven governance. Technology and cybersecurity firms with biometric and AI exposure stand to gain. However, privacy-oriented sectors may face stricter compliance costs. Stay tuned for sectoral trend updates exclusively at Indian-Share-Tips.com, which is a SEBI Registered Advisory Services.
Related Queries on US Immigration and Biometric Policies
- How Will the US Biometric Entry-Exit System Affect Green Card Holders?
- Is India Likely to Implement Similar Border Security Measures?
- What Are the Privacy Risks of Global Biometric Systems?
SEBI Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment advice. Readers must perform their own due diligence and consult a registered investment advisor before making any investment decisions. The views expressed are general in nature and may not suit individual investment objectives or financial situations.
