19 hours ago
Last Updated:November 02, 2025, 08:41 IST
The US Department of Homeland Security proposes expanding biometric data collection for immigration, including DNA, iris scans, and voice samples.
US President Donald Trump talks with US Border Patrol Chief Rodney Scott as he tours a section of the US-Mexico border wall in San Luis, Arizona, US. (IMAGE: REUTERS)
The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has proposed sweeping changes to how it collects and uses biometric data from individuals applying for immigration benefits, visas, or naturalisation. The proposed rule seeks to expand the definition and scope of biometrics collected by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and other DHS agencies.
“The key proposed changes include requiring any individual filing or associated with an immigration-related benefit request or other request adjudicated by DHS, regardless of age, to appear for biometrics submission unless exempted," the proposed rule, shared on US Federal Register’s website said.
Under the draft rule, any individual connected to an immigration-related application, regardless of age, could be required to appear for biometric submission unless explicitly exempted. This would cover a broad range of applicants, from visa seekers to those seeking permanent residency or citizenship.
The DHS proposal significantly broadens what counts as “biometrics." In addition to fingerprints and photographs, it includes facial imagery, iris and retina scans, palm prints, voice samples, signatures, and even partial DNA profiles. The department said DNA or DNA test results could be required to verify biological relationships or determine eligibility for family-based immigration petitions.
“DHS proposes to define the term ‘biometrics’ as the measurable biological (anatomical, physiological, and molecular structure) or behavioral characteristics of an individual."
“Modalities meeting this definition include, but are not limited to, facial imagery, fingerprints and palm prints, handwritten signature, ocular imagery, voice patterns, and DNA."
Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a Chief Sub-Editor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over seven years of experience during which he has covered se...Read More
Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a Chief Sub-Editor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over seven years of experience during which he has covered se...
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Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)
First Published:
November 02, 2025, 08:38 IST
News world Trump Administration Proposes Rule To Gather DNA, Facial Scans From Immigration Applicants
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