US Introduces Groundbreaking Immigration Measures With Mandatory Biometric Screening For Green Card Holders And Enhanced Security For Travelers From 19 Countries: Here’s What’s Changed

Published on December 27, 2025

On December 26, 2025, US authorities will enact historic immigration policies that will require green card holders to undergo biometric screening and increase security for visitors from 19 different nations. These new procedures are a part of a larger initiative to strengthen border security and enhance surveillance of foreigners coming into and going out of the United States. The current entry-exit system will be significantly expanded by requiring green card holders to submit to biometric checks at all entry and exit points. These checks will include fingerprints, iris scans, and photos. Travelers from 19 high-risk nations will also be subject to increased scrutiny, guaranteeing a more comprehensive inspection procedure. These modifications are intended to enhance immigration processes, bolster national security, and guarantee more precise tracking of all foreign visitors.

New restrictions and immigration protocols set by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) are set to go into effect on Friday, December 26, 2025. These updates, which include expanded biometric checks and increased scrutiny for green card holders, aim to enhance security and monitoring of international travel for non-U.S. citizens, including lawful permanent residents.

The new rules, which come after the recent introduction of heightened measures by the administration, empower federal authorities to monitor the travel activities of individuals holding green cards. A list of 19 countries has been identified for additional review, and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will now conduct more in-depth checks on green card holders’ travel history and status.

What Are the New Green Card Travel Protocols?

Biometric Entry-Exit System Expansion

One of the most significant changes in the updated Green Card travel rules is the expansion of the biometric entry-exit system. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has broadened its biometric screening policy to include all foreign nationals, including lawful permanent residents. This system now applies at airports, land borders, and seaports, which will affect all travelers—whether entering or leaving the United States.

Previously, certain groups, such as minors under the age of 14 and seniors over the age of 79, were exempt from biometric checks. However, under the new regulations, these individuals will also be included in the biometric entry-exit system, ensuring that all travelers are subjected to similar scrutiny. As part of the procedure, CBP officers will take photographs of travelers and may also collect fingerprints or iris scans. These biometric data will then be verified against a traveler’s existing records in the agency’s Traveler Verification Service database.

Additional Scrutiny for Green Card Holders from 19 Countries

In addition to the broader biometric screening measures, green card holders from 19 specific countries will face more extensive checks. The list of these countries includes Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, the Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Yemen, Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela.

As a result, green card holders originating from these countries will experience heightened scrutiny at U.S. entry points. This may involve additional questioning, further inspection of travel documents, and more intensive background checks.

Implications for Green Card Holders Traveling to and from the U.S.

With the new regulations in place, green card holders should be prepared for several important changes when traveling internationally.

Routine Biometric Screening at U.S. Entry and Exit Points

The expanded biometric screening requirements mean that green card holders will now undergo biometric checks each time they enter or leave the U.S. Whether they are arriving at an airport, crossing a land border, or leaving through a seaport, permanent residents can expect to be photographed at the very least, with some travelers potentially facing fingerprinting or iris scans as well. This move ensures that all foreign nationals, including lawful permanent residents, are consistently monitored for security purposes.

Increased Border Inspection and Delays

In addition to routine biometric screenings, travelers may also face more thorough border checks. Green card holders from the countries listed for increased monitoring can expect heightened scrutiny when entering the United States or leaving it. Border agents may spend additional time reviewing the traveler’s documents, conducting interviews, or verifying their travel history.

This increased inspection could lead to delays in processing, especially during peak travel times. Therefore, travelers should plan accordingly and allow for extra time at border control to avoid potential stress.

The Importance of Keeping Documentation Updated

To ensure a smooth experience under the new protocols, green card holders must maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation. This includes ensuring that all travel records, identification papers, and immigration-related documents are current and readily available. If questioned by U.S. officials, permanent residents should be able to provide the necessary proof of their legal status and travel history.

Potential Delays in Processing Green Card and Visa Applications

The implementation of these new security protocols is likely to slow down the processing of immigration applications. With more extensive background checks and biometric screenings being added to the process, it’s expected that review times for both green card applications and visa applications will increase.

For those who are in the process of applying for a green card or renewing their status, it’s important to be aware of potential delays. Applicants may face longer waiting periods, so they should consider submitting their applications well in advance of their planned travel.

Long-Term Rollout of the Biometric System

The deployment of the expanded biometric entry-exit system will be a gradual process. Over the next three to five years, the system will be implemented at more airports, land borders, and seaports across the United States. The DHS has indicated that it will continue to refine the system and issue additional guidance to the public and relevant authorities.

As the system is expanded, green card holders and other foreign nationals should expect to encounter this new security measure at more entry points around the country. The system will eventually provide a more seamless and secure experience for U.S. authorities and travelers alike, while ensuring that every individual entering or leaving the United States is accurately tracked.

What Green Card Holders Need to Know

In summary, the introduction of these new travel rules marks a significant change for green card holders. Biometric screening will now be routine for all foreign nationals, including permanent residents, and additional scrutiny will be directed at those from 19 countries identified for heightened monitoring. With the potential for longer wait times at U.S. entry points and the increased need for accurate documentation, green card holders must prepare accordingly.

US is introducing mandatory biometric screening for green card holders and enhanced security for travelers from 19 countries starting December 26, 2025, to strengthen border security and improve tracking of all international travelers. These measures aim to ensure thorough monitoring and heightened scrutiny for higher-risk individuals.

While these changes are aimed at improving security, travelers should remain vigilant, keep their records up to date, and plan for potential delays. As the rollout of the biometric system continues, green card holders can expect greater oversight of their international travel, ensuring a safer and more secure experience for everyone involved.