Mexico Joins Canada, Brazil, Jamaica, Barbados, Dominica in Facing Significant Travel Changes And Border Delays Across US Under New Biometric Entry-Exit Rule: Everything You Need To Know

Published on December 27, 2025

Starting December 26, 2025, Mexico, Canada, and other countries like Brazil, Jamaica, Barbados, and Dominica will be subject to mandatory biometric checks upon entering and exiting the United States. This new rule, enforced by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), applies to all non-US citizens, including Green Card holders, and requires them to undergo biometric collection at all border points, including airports, land crossings, and seaports. Children under 14 and adults over 79 years old will also be included in this new requirement. The move marks the full rollout of the Traveler Verification Service (TVS), which was previously tested only at select ports.

Biometric Entry-Exit: What Does This Mean for Travelers?

The biometric entry-exit rule requires non-US citizens to provide photographs, fingerprints, and iris scans during both entry and exit from the US. While this process has already been in place for a select few travelers under pilot programs, it is now mandatory for all international visitors.

Travelers from Canada, Mexico, and countries like Brazil and Argentina will need to provide these biometric identifiers to verify their identities. This includes visitors traveling via private aircraft or even those crossing on foot, a step that significantly broadens the scope of the policy.

This change is designed to enhance security and streamline border control processes, making it easier to track entry and exit information for millions of travelers. It will also help with quicker processing times and fewer travel delays for tourists and business travelers alike.

Key Points of the Biometric Entry-Exit System

• Mandatory Biometric Collection: All non-US citizens, including Green Card holders, will have their photographs taken at airports, land borders, and seaports. Fingerprints and iris scans may also be required as part of the process.
• Coverage for Canadians and Diplomats: Canadians, who were previously exempt, will now be required to submit biometrics. Diplomats, who had enjoyed exemptions, will now also be subject to these new requirements.
• Data Retention: While US citizens are exempt from the rule, they can voluntarily participate in the biometric process if they choose. For non-citizens, biometric data will be stored in the DHS Biometric Identity Management System for up to 75 years, a measure that supports long-term security and identification processes.
• Age Exemptions: Children under 14 and adults over 79 will still be required to submit biometrics, unlike in previous policies where certain age groups were exempt.

The new biometric entry-exit rule for non-US citizens and Green Card holders applies to travelers from countries outside the EU, EEA, and Switzerland. The rule affects citizens from countries such as:

1. Canada
2. Mexico
3. Australia
4. Brazil
5. Argentina
6. India
7. China
8. Japan
9. South Korea
10. Russia
11. South Africa
12. New Zealand
13. Israel
14. Turkey
15. Saudi Arabia
16. UAE (Dubai/Abu Dhabi)
17. Singapore
18. Malaysia
19. Thailand

The biometric entry-exit rule will affect travelers from several Latin American countries that are outside the EU, EEA, and Switzerland. Specifically, the following Latin American countries would be impacted:

1. Argentina
2. Brazil
3. Mexico
4. Chile
5. Colombia
6. Peru
7. Ecuador
8. Venezuela
9. Uruguay
10. Paraguay

Impact on Business and Leisure Travel

The new biometric entry-exit rule will have a direct impact on both business and leisure travel to the US. For business travelers, especially those visiting multiple countries or making short-term visits to the US, this new rule may create additional time spent at borders due to the biometric verification process. Travelers should plan for longer processing times, especially during peak travel periods.

For tourists, this change means that entering and exiting the US will require additional steps. Though the biometric process is expected to streamline border checks in the long run, travelers may face some initial delays as the system becomes fully operational. Travelers from countries like Mexico, Canada, and Brazil, previously accustomed to quicker entry, will now need to adjust to the new requirements.

What Does This Mean for Digital Nomads and Remote Workers?

For digital nomads and remote workers, this change could make travel to the US more seamless in the future by reducing border wait times and improving security measures. However, those with frequent travel to the US may experience some discomfort initially as they adjust to the biometric system and its new procedures.

Additionally, tourists planning to visit iconic US destinations like New York, Los Angeles, or Washington, D.C. should also be aware of the longer wait times at airports due to the new entry-exit requirements.

What Should Travelers Do Before Their Trip?

1. Plan Ahead for Longer Wait Times: Be prepared for the biometric process at both US entry and exit points. Travelers should allocate extra time, especially during peak travel periods.
2. Check Entry Requirements: Ensure that your travel documents are in order before arriving in the US. For non-US citizens, the ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) system may apply for certain countries.
3. Familiarize Yourself with the Process: If you’re a business traveler or tourist traveling to the US, make sure you understand how the biometric collection will affect your entry and exit process. The CBP website provides a clear guide on what to expect.
4. Stay Updated on Travel Advisories: Travel restrictions and security measures can change quickly. It’s essential to stay informed through official government channels to ensure smooth entry and exit procedures.
5. Know About Privacy Concerns: Travelers may have concerns about their biometric data being stored. The Department of Homeland Security has put safeguards in place to protect this data, but travelers should stay informed about how it will be used and stored.

Other Considerations for Travelers

• Rail and Land Border Travel: Travelers entering the US by land (via Canada or Mexico) will be affected by the new biometric requirements at land crossings. This could impact the flow of travelers across the US-Canada border, so allow for extra time when crossing by car or train.
• Faster Processing for Voluntary Participation: US citizens who choose to participate in the biometric process at entry and exit will experience faster processing times, so consider this option for a smoother journey.

Conclusion: A More Secure and Streamlined Border Experience

The US biometric entry-exit rule marks a significant step forward in border security and passenger processing. While travelers may initially face some inconvenience with longer wait times and new procedures, the overall goal of this policy is to enhance security and improve efficiency at US airports and border points. As non-US citizens and Green Card holders adjust to the new process, the US will become a more secure and streamlined destination for both business and tourist travel.

Disclaimer: The Attached Image in This Article is AI Generated