Photo: Shutterstock A significant change in the process of entering the United States: US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has announced the start of operation of a new biometric border control system, based on cameras and facial recognition technology.
The new system, launched at Philadelphia International Airport, is designed to streamline the entry of international travelers enrolled in the Global Entry program, replacing traditional service stations with an automated identification process.
According to the authority's announcement, Philadelphia became the first airport in the United States where the new process was implemented, as early as October 13, 2026.
But the move is not expected to remain limited to Philadelphia. The authority plans to expand the system to up to 38 terminals at 30 major airports, including certain sites where American border checks are conducted outside the United States.
Until now, Global Entry members used dedicated service stations, through which they were required to complete an identification process and answer customs declaration questions upon arrival in the United States.
The new process installs cameras that allow for biometric comparison of the passenger's face, verifying their identity, and checking their membership status in the program.
The system is designed to reduce the need for interaction with service stations, improve passenger flow, and streamline the activities of border control personnel.
According to CBP, the change combines an improved passenger entry experience with stronger identification and security capabilities.
The Global Entry program is one of the trusted traveler programs operated by the United States, and is intended for travelers who are pre-approved after security background checks and a personal interview.
According to official data, as of October 1, 2026, the program had 15.6 million active members.
The new system is intended for this population, who wish to enjoy a faster and more efficient entry process after landing from an international flight.
The authority expects to expand the service to additional airports in the future, but the official announcement did not publish the names of all airports that will be included in the deployment, and no completion date was set.
Despite the announcement of the system's expansion, it is important to emphasize that this does not mean the elimination of passport checks for everyone entering the United States.
The new service is for pre-approved Global Entry members only. Travelers who are not members of the program will continue to go through the normal entry procedures in accordance with US authorities' guidelines.
Program members are also not exempt from the inspection and enforcement powers of CBP personnel, who are authorized to conduct additional inspections as necessary.
Alongside the new system, Global Entry members can continue to use the Trusted Traveler app where available to report their arrival in the United States and submit customs declarations.
Elliot N. Ortiz, director of CBP's Port of Entry Region in Philadelphia, noted in the agency's announcement that the improved process reflects the organization's ongoing efforts to streamline passenger handling, improve the international arrival experience, and strengthen national security.
With its planned rollout at additional airports, the system could become a significant part of the U.S. entry experience for millions of Global Entry members. As mentioned, it is already operational in Philadelphia, and expansion to other airports is still ahead.