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-Editorial
The United States is taking a significant step toward modernizing its border management with the rollout of a nationwide biometric entry-exit system. New guidance issued by the Department of Homeland Security authorizes U.S. Customs and Border Protection, beginning Dec. 26, to require the collection of biometrics — including photographs and other identifiers — from all non-U.S. travelers entering and departing the country.
The rule accelerates a long-planned effort to establish a comprehensive biometric exit system, which CBP expects to fully implement at all commercial airports and seaports within three to five years. DHS officials have described the measure as part of a broader initiative to improve identity verification and strengthen national security at ports of entry.
The U.S. action comes as other regions adopt similar systems. The European Union launched its digital Entry/Exit System last month, collecting facial images and fingerprints from non-EU travelers. Federal officials say these international developments demonstrate the growing global reliance on biometric technology for secure and efficient travel.
CBP reports that its facial comparison technology verifies a traveler’s identity with an accuracy rate above 98 percent, significantly reducing reliance on manual biographic checks. Officials say the system also has the potential to ease congestion by eliminating the need for travelers to present passports and boarding passes repeatedly during inspection.
According to DHS, full biometric exit capabilities could also reshape eligibility measures for the Visa Waiver Program. Once the system is operating for all international air departures, traveler overstay rates — rather than visa refusal rates — would become the primary metric for determining a country’s participation in the program. Supporters argue that this shift could allow more nations to join the program and strengthen inbound travel.
Industry groups point to historical trends showing measurable increases in visitation after countries enter the Visa Waiver Program. Data from past admissions show an average 18 percent rise in arrivals within six months and 24 percent growth within three years. South Korea, which joined the program in 2008, recorded visitation nearly 50 percent higher three years later than before its admission.
Proponents, including national travel organizations, say the new rule reflects years of advocacy for expanded biometric capabilities and additional funding. They argue that the system could boost travel spending, support tourism-related jobs, and generate tax revenue by streamlining the entry process and enabling Visa Waiver Program expansion.
The Commission on Seamless and Secure Travel has recommended completing biometric air exit by 2026 to improve identity verification and reduce vulnerabilities in the nation’s travel infrastructure. DHS officials say advancing the system now is critical as the U.S. prepares to host major international events, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the America 250 celebrations.
Supporters contend that biometric systems are rapidly becoming the global standard and that full implementation will help the U.S. maintain competitiveness in international travel. Federal agencies plan to continue expanding the technology in the coming years as part of ongoing efforts to modernize border security and streamline the traveler experience.
