UPDATE: New facial recognition rules are now in effect at airports across the United States, igniting intense privacy concerns among travelers. As of December 26, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has mandated that all noncitizens will have their facial biometric data collected upon entry and exit from the country.
This significant policy shift aims to combat visa fraud, identify criminals, and prevent illegal reentries. The US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has confirmed that facial recognition technology will now be standard for international travelers, a move that eliminates previous exemptions for diplomats and many Canadian visitors.
Diane J. Sabatino, acting executive assistant commissioner of CBP’s field operations, stated,
“This final rule marks a major milestone towards our efforts to successfully implement the Biometric Entry/Exit mandate and strengthen the security of the United States.”
The increased funding will enhance technology for identity verification, further securing the entry and exit processes at various points of entry.
The new regulations have arrived just in time for a bustling holiday travel season, with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) projecting over 44 million travelers to pass through US airports between December 19 and January 4. In fact, December 28 is expected to see nearly 2.9 million travelers, making it one of the busiest days of the year.
Facial recognition technology is touted as the “best available method for biometric verification,” according to a notice in the Federal Register. However, these measures have sparked significant backlash from privacy advocates concerned about data collection and surveillance.
US citizens are not required to enroll in the facial biometrics program but can opt in if they choose. Those who prefer not to participate are advised to inform a CBP officer or airline representative to undergo a manual passport check instead. It is important to note that images of US citizens will be discarded within 12 hours, while data from noncitizens may be retained for up to 75 years.
The initiative follows a long-standing interest in expanding traveler oversight that dates back to 2017 when former President Donald Trump signed an executive order to expedite biometric systems. Prior to this update, data collection was limited to pilot programs at select airports and seaports.
As travelers navigate the new landscape of biometric data collection, another proposed regulation may soon require tourists to submit detailed social media histories to enter the US. This proposal, which includes requests for email addresses and phone numbers, is open for public comment until February 9, 2026.
With these changes in play, travelers are urged to remain vigilant and informed about their rights and the implications of these new security measures. The unfolding situation raises critical questions about privacy and security in the age of advanced technology, emphasizing the need for ongoing dialogue and scrutiny.
As the holiday travel rush intensifies, travelers and advocates alike will be watching closely to see how these new rules impact the flying experience and the broader implications for personal privacy. Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
