US passport inspection. Photo: Shutterstock The United States is preparing for the next phase in its border management process. The country will implement a comprehensive biometric system, which will apply to all individuals who are not U.S. citizens.
According to a new directive from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which will take effect on December 26, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will be able to require a facial photograph and biometric data from every foreign traveler, both when entering and leaving the United States.
The directive marks the beginning of a broad implementation process, in which the U.S. is expected to complete a full biometric identification system at all commercial airports and seaports within three to five years.
The move is being made against the backdrop of global trends, primarily the European Union, which last month launched a new biometric digital system that includes facial recognition and fingerprints for anyone who is not a citizen of the Union.
The new system in the U.S. will compare passengers' facial images to the information in their passports, with the goal of enhancing security and reducing wait times at airports.
Lines at border control in Newark. Photo: AS photo family / Shutterstock
Some of the main advantages of the new system:
- Enhanced Security: CBP's biometric matching technology enables accurate identification with a success rate of more than 98%.
- A smoother transit experience: The system reduces the need to present a passport and airline ticket and speeds up passenger transit.
- Change in visa exemption indicators: With the launch of a full biometric exit system, emphasis will be placed on visa waiver rates, instead of the refusal rate, which may expand the number of countries that will benefit from the exemption.
The U.S. government sees the visa waiver as a key driver for increasing inbound tourism. According to DHS data, countries that joined the visa waiver program saw an 18% increase in visitors within six months, and a 24% increase after three years. A notable example of this is South Korea, which has seen a nearly 50% increase in tourism to the US in three years since joining the program in 2008.
The new decision follows extensive efforts by the U.S. travel industry, which successfully secured government funding for biometric technologies through federal legislation. The “Smooth and Safe Travel” committee also recommended completing the air system implementation by 2026, in time for international events such as the 2026 World Cup and the 250th anniversary of the United States.
"Biometric technology is not just the future of travel, it's already here," said Jeffrey Freeman, CEO of the U.S. Travel Association, concluding: "The Department of Homeland Security's long-awaited action is key to realizing a safe and efficient travel experience for all those entering and leaving the United States."