Uncle Sam wants to scan your face on the way in - and out

"The final rule was published on Monday, and expands the Department of Homeland Security's policy of collecting biometric data (primarily in the form of a photograph) to begin requiring photographs at points of exit as well as entry. While the department's Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agency has been collecting biometric data from foreign visitors to the US since 2004, "there is no comprehensive system in place to collect biometrics from aliens departing the country," it said."

""This rule simply amends DHS regulations to provide that DHS may require all aliens to be photographed when entering or exiting the United States," CBP Assistant Commissioner for Public Affairs Hilton Beckham told The Register. CBP wrote that requiring photographs of foreigners on entry and exit to the US would help prevent terrorism, limit the fraudulent use of travel documents, and identify anyone who attempts to leave the US beyond their authorized stay in the country."

"The rule is also lifting age restrictions on storing biometric data. Under the prior rule, people under 14 and over 79 were exempted from having their data collected at entry and exit points. The rule removes those restrictions, "as the use of biometrics has expanded beyond criminal history background checks and now plays a vital role in identity verification and management, and combating the trafficking of children.""

A new DHS rule expands biometric collection to require photographs of all foreign visitors at both US entry and exit points. CBP has collected biometric data since 2004 but lacked a comprehensive exit collection system. The rule removes prior age exemptions for those under 14 and over 79, broadening identity verification and efforts to combat child trafficking. Storing photographs at both entry and exit aims to prevent terrorism, reduce travel-document fraud, and identify overstays. The policy raises uncertainty about whether DHS will detain or take enforcement action against travelers caught departing after visa expiration.

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