The United States has announced a new set of entry and exit regulations for green card holders and other non-US citizens, requiring mandatory biometric verification at all border points, airports, and seaports starting December 26, 2025.
According to the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the new rule will include facial recognition and fingerprint scans for lawful permanent residents, visa holders, and other non-citizens both during arrival and departure. The system aims to enhance national security, track visa overstays, and prevent identity fraud.
Previously, only select travellers were subject to exit scans. The updated rule will now cover almost all non-citizens, including minors under 14 and seniors above 79.
CBP officials said the biometric system will help establish a comprehensive record of movements in and out of the US and ensure compliance with immigration laws.
However, civil liberties groups have raised privacy concerns, warning of possible data misuse and inaccuracies in facial recognition technology.
Immigration experts have advised green card holders to ensure their travel documents are valid and to be mindful of the duration of their stays abroad, as prolonged absences could still affect residency status.
The move is part of the US government’s broader plan to fully implement a biometric entry-exit system at all ports of entry within the next few years.
