US tightens border rules, here's what non-citizens must know before traveling

Here are the key takeaways from the new U.S. border rules that came into effect on December 26, 2025 for non-citizens

Expanded Biometric Checks
- Facial biometrics are now mandatory for all non-U.S. citizens at entry and exit points (airports, land borders, seaports, private aircraft, and pedestrian crossings).
- Fingerprints and iris scans may also be collected and verified against travel documents via the Traveller Verification Service.

Exemptions Removed
- Earlier exemptions for children under 14, adults over 79, diplomats, and most Canadian visitors have been scrapped.
- Now, everyone must undergo biometric checks.

Travel Ban & Restrictions
- From January 1, 2026, the U.S. will fully bar entry from 12 countries (including Afghanistan, Iran, Somalia, Yemen).
- Partial restrictions apply to travelers from 7 countries (such as Cuba, Venezuela, Burundi, Togo, Turkmenistan).

Opt-Out Option
- Travelers unwilling to undergo facial biometric screening can request a manual passport inspection by informing CBP officers or airline staff.

Green Card Holders
- Green-card holders from 19 countries flagged for security concerns will face tougher reviews.
- Authorities may re-interview immigrants and reassess applications filed as far back as 2021.

Increased Scrutiny
- Border questioning is expected to become more detailed.
- International travel of flagged individuals will be closely tracked.

⚠️ In short: Non-citizens should expect stricter biometric checks, fewer exemptions, tougher reviews for certain green-card holders, and new travel bans starting January 2026.