The United States has implemented a new set of travel and border control rules that significantly change how non-US nationals enter and exit the country. These updated guidelines officially took effect on 26 December 2025 and apply to most foreign travelers, including lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders).
The most notable change is the expansion of mandatory biometric entry and exit reviews, which now apply at virtually all ports of entry and departure across the United States.
Biometric Entry and Exit Is Now Mandatory
Under the new rules, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is required to collect biometric information every time a non-US national enters or leaves the United States.
This requirement applies across:
- International airports
- Land borders
- Seaports
- Pedestrian crossings
- Private aircraft terminals
In practical terms, travelers should expect their photograph to be taken on every entry and exit. In many cases, additional biometric identifiers may also be collected.
Age and Category Exemptions Have Been Removed
One of the most significant changes is the removal of long-standing exemptions.
Previously, certain groups were often excluded from biometric checks. Under the new policy, biometric reviews now apply to:
- Children under the age of 14
- Seniors over the age of 79
- Diplomats
- Some categories of Canadian travelers
These individuals were previously exempt in many situations. The updated rules now bring them within the biometric screening framework.
What Biometric Information Can Be Collected
When entering or exiting the United States, non-US travelers may be required to provide:
- Facial photographs
- Fingerprints
- Iris scans in certain circumstances
This data is linked to travel histories through the Traveler Verification Service, which connects biometric records with passport and visa information.
U.S. citizens are not required to participate in biometric exit procedures and may request a manual passport inspection instead.
Green Card Holders Face Increased Scrutiny
Lawful permanent residents remain legally entitled to live and work in the United States. However, the new rules introduce closer examination of international travel by Green Card holders.
Reports indicate that travel histories of non-US nationals, including permanent residents, are now being tracked more closely—particularly for individuals connected to countries flagged for security concerns.
As a result:
- Border questioning may take longer
- Officers may request travel records and proof of residence
- Additional documentation may be required
Possible Re-Examination of Older Immigration Cases
According to reports from early December, U.S. immigration authorities plan to re-examine and re-interview certain immigrants from specific countries.
In some cases, reviews may extend back several years. The Department of Homeland Security has stated that the goal is to tighten screening for individuals seeking:
- Permanent resident status
- Naturalization
- Other long-term immigration benefits
This means that even applicants who complied with previous rules may now face renewed scrutiny.
Application Delays Are Expected
On 2 December 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced pauses in processing certain green card, citizenship, and asylum applications involving nationals of selected countries.
As a result, delays are expected for:
- Pending applications
- New filings submitted in 2026
Green Card holders and applicants are advised to keep passports, residence documents, and travel records readily accessible.
Expanded Travel Restrictions From January 1, 2026
Another major change takes effect on 1 January 2026. USCIS has halted assessments of green card, citizenship, and asylum applications for candidates from 19 countries previously flagged under travel restriction measures.
Countries Facing Full Restrictions
- Eritrea
- Yemen
- Afghanistan
- Sudan
- Burma
- Somalia
- Chad
- Libya
- Republic of Congo
- Iran
- Equatorial Guinea
- Haiti
Countries Facing Partial Restrictions
- Turkmenistan
- Burundi
- Venezuela
- Cuba
- Togo
- Laos
- Sierra Leone
These measures affect visa processing, entry approvals, and immigration benefits.
What Travelers Should Do Now
If you are a non-US national traveling to or from the United States, preparation is essential.
- Expect biometric scans at every entry and exit
- Plan for longer border processing times
- Carry all immigration and residence documents
- Be prepared for additional questioning
For Green Card holders and visa applicants, maintaining complete and accurate travel and residence records is more important than ever.
Conclusion
The new U.S. travel rules mark one of the most significant expansions of biometric border control in recent years. For non-US nationals, including lawful permanent residents, border reviews are now more detailed, consistent, and unavoidable.
While the changes may increase processing times, understanding the new requirements and preparing accordingly will help travelers navigate U.S. borders with fewer disruptions.