The United States will soon photograph all non-citizens entering and exiting the country under new regulations announced by U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem.
The rules are part of a set of biometric data requirements announced Oct. 27 by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) with the stated aim of enhancing border security and verifying traveller identity, and will take effect Dec. 26. The photo records could be stored for up to 75 years, the department said.
U.S. authorities will also have authority to request DNA samples and fingerprints from all non-citizens under the new rules.
“The best tool to combat passport fraud is to utilize the digital photos contained in e-passports to biometrically verify that a person who presents a travel document is the true bearer of that document,” the document reads, adding that the measures are “essential” for keeping the U.S. immigration system secure as well as protecting against terrorism and visa overstays….