CBP to Expand Facial Comparison Technology at U.S. Borders
Introduction
On Oct. 27, 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security posted a final rule to the Federal Register outlining its plan to expand facial photo collection of non-U.S. citizens entering and leaving the U.S. beginning Dec. 26, 2025.
This rule would apply to all non-U.S. citizen travelers, regardless of age, entering or exiting the U.S. at air, land, and sea Ports of Entry (POEs). Technology would be phased in a major POEs throughout 2026, and possibly beyond. Additionally, while Canadian citizens will generally remain exempt from fingerprinting and other biometric data collection, they will be included in this new facial photo collection protocol.
While photography and facial recognition technology are already in use at many U.S. airports - O'Hare and Midway already use facial comparison technology upon entry and exit - this rule sets up an expansion of the practice for all non-U.S. citizens entering and exiting the country across all POEs.
Members of the UIC international community who typically enter and exit the U.S. at points that do not currently use facial comparison technology should be prepared for the possibility of implementation after Dec. 26, 2025. Additionally, if you travel with dependent children under the age of 14, know that they will no longer be exempt from facial photo collection.
The Department of Homeland Security is accepting public comment on this rule until Nov. 26, 2025. Read the full rule and find instructions on how to submit a public comment at the U.S. Federal Register.
The Office of International Services will continue to monitor this issue closely and communicate updates as they become available. If you have a question or concern, connect with an OIS Advisor or email OIS at ois@uic.edu. Our office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. If someone is experiencing a travel-related immigration emergency outside of these hours, they may use the OIS After-Hours Emergency Contact.
Please note that the information shared in this message is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.