The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) have announced the new Collection of Biometric Data from Aliens Upon Entry to and Departure from the United States rules have taken effect authorizing the U.S. government to photograph and collect biometric information from all non-U.S. citizens, including Canadians, upon entry to and departure from the United States.

CBP have already been using facial biometrics (photographs) to confirm the identities of international passengers arriving at U.S. airports. This now applies to travellers exiting all international U.S. airports as well.

Where are photographs being used?

Facial biometrics is being used to include travellers when they enter and exit the country at all land crossings, seaports, or any other points of entry and departure. This means that CBP is authorized to photograph travellers at all ports of entry and exit, including pedestrian lanes at both the Southwest Border and the Northern Border ports of entry. According to CBP, it is currently being tested in vehicle lanes.

The process involves photographing travellers, and using biometric facial comparison technology to ensure their face matches the photo on their travel documents. Visit the CBP website to learn about the different technology used at each type of port of entry.

What are Biometrics?

CBD defines biometrics as “unique physical characteristics like fingerprints or facial structure, used to identify and verify people.”

Facial biometric comparison technology compares a visitor’s live facial features with the photo in their travel documents to verify identity and confirm lawful entry or exit. Visit cbp.com for more information

Photos taken of foreign travellers will remain on a DHS database for up-to 75 years.

What about fingerprints?

Canadians are generally exempt from being fingerprinted at the U.S. border. However, there are exceptions. In addition to being photographed:

• Canadian visitors 14 years of age or older (who were not fingerprinted when applying for a U.S. visa) and who remain in the United States for 30 days or longer, may be fingerprinted
• Canadian visitors sent to secondary inspection (i.e. for pre-registration or extra checks) or when using certain programs like NEXUS, may be fingerprinted.

								
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