Data Card
DHS Finalizes Nationwide Biometric Exit Rule
Final rule removes ‘pilot’ limits and authorizes facial image collection for departing non‑citizens at all ports of exit.
About
Key Facts
- Effective December 26, 2025; comments on process due November 26, 2025
- Expands CBP authority from limited pilots to all airports, land and sea ports
- Builds on Simplified Arrival; 178M travelers processed via face match in 2024
Card Text
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security published its final rule establishing a permanent biometric entry–exit framework. The text explicitly removes the prior “pilot program” limitation for exit checks, authorizing facial image capture for departing non‑citizens at airports, land borders, and seaports.
The rule codifies what CBP has already deployed for entry and opens the door to broad expansion at exit, with the agency estimating a three‑to‑five‑year build‑out to reach full coverage. CBP is soliciting targeted public comments on the specific collection process and cost–benefit assumptions even as the final rule moves forward. citeturn2view0