Major Update for U.S. Green Card Holders: New Biometric Travel Rules Take Effect
Washington, D.C., December 26, 2025 — The United States has rolled out one of the most comprehensive updates to Green Card travel regulations in recent years. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has expanded its biometric screening system across all U.S. entry and exit points, a move that will now affect millions of lawful permanent residents and international travelers.
Effective immediately, all Green Card holders are required to undergo mandatory biometric screening — including photographs and fingerprint or iris scans — each time they enter or leave the country. The update also introduces enhanced screening for travelers from 19 specific countries, signaling a major shift in U.S. border security policy.
According to DHS, the new rules aim to strengthen national security, improve identity verification, prevent visa overstays, and modernize traveler tracking. While these measures enhance safety, they also usher in a new era of tighter travel oversight and longer screening times at ports of entry.
Expanded Biometric Entry–Exit System
The centerpiece of this update is the nationwide biometric entry–exit program, now mandatory for all travelers — including permanent residents.
New procedures include:
- Digital photographs taken at every port of entry and exit
- Fingerprint or iris scans for identity verification
- Real-time database checks across federal security systems
Previously, biometric checks were limited to certain age groups and visa categories. Under the new rules, all travelers — including children under 14 and seniors over 79 — are now included, ensuring comprehensive tracking of every arrival and departure.
Officials say this expanded system is intended to combat identity fraud, document forgery, and visa overstays, while improving the accuracy of international travel records.
Enhanced Screening for 19 Countries
In addition to the biometric overhaul, the DHS has identified 19 countries whose travelers will face additional screening measures. These countries span regions in the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
For Green Card holders and visitors with ties to these nations, the new process may involve:
- More detailed verification of immigration documents and travel history
- Additional questioning at U.S. entry points
- Cross-checking of prior travel records and residency status
While this does not constitute a travel ban, DHS confirms that processing may take longer for affected travelers. Officials encourage all passengers to ensure their documentation is accurate and up to date to avoid unnecessary delays.
Impact on Green Card Holders
The update marks a major procedural change for U.S. permanent residents.
Key effects include:
- Routine biometric screening at airports, seaports, and land borders
- Longer average processing times during arrival and departure
- Stricter document verification before re-entry into the United States
DHS advises travelers to arrive early at airports and allow additional time for customs processing, particularly during peak holiday or travel seasons.
Government and Expert Reactions
Homeland Security officials describe the measures as critical to protecting U.S. borders and preventing immigration fraud. The system is designed to modernize security infrastructure and ensure that travelers’ movements are recorded with greater precision.
Experts note that while the technology improves national security, it could also lead to longer wait times and potential privacy concerns. Civil liberties advocates have called for stronger data protection safeguards and transparency around how biometric information is stored and used.
Practical Guidance for Travelers
Green Card holders and foreign nationals can take several steps to ensure smoother travel under the new rules:
- Verify that passports, Green Cards, and visas are valid and current.
- Carry all required documents when crossing U.S. borders.
- Arrive earlier than usual for flights or international departures.
- Stay informed through official DHS or CBP announcements for updates.
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Conclusion
The updated U.S. Green Card travel rules represent a major transformation in border management and security operations. By introducing universal biometric checks and enhanced scrutiny for select countries, the United States is adopting a technology-driven approach to international travel monitoring.
While the changes are designed to strengthen security and prevent fraud, they also require travelers to plan ahead, keep documents updated, and anticipate longer screening times. For millions of Green Card holders, these new procedures reflect the evolving balance between national security priorities and the freedom of global mobility in a digital age.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Who is affected by the new rules?
All Green Card holders, foreign nationals, and travelers from 19 designated countries will be subject to biometric screening at U.S. entry and exit points.
Q2: What types of biometric checks will be used?
Travelers will undergo photographs, fingerprint scans, and, in some cases, iris scans, matched against federal databases in real time.
Q3: Why are these rules being implemented?
To enhance border security, prevent illegal entry and visa overstays, reduce identity fraud, and maintain accurate travel records.
Q4: Will this increase travel time?
Yes. Travelers should expect longer processing times at airports and land borders, especially during busy travel periods.
Q5: What should travelers from the 19 countries expect?
They can expect enhanced document checks and additional questioning during immigration processing.
Q6: Are these measures permanent?
Yes, they are now fully implemented, though DHS may adjust procedures as biometric technology evolves. Travelers should monitor official channels for further updates.
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