Traveling to or from the United States has become more secure with new US immigration rules 2026 that started on December 26, 2025. These new US immigration rules 2026 focus on better identity checks for everyone who is not a U.S. citizen, including green card holders. If you hold a green card or plan to visit the U.S., it’s important to know about these new US immigration rules to avoid surprises at the border.
What Are the Main Changes in New US Immigration Rules 2026?
The biggest update in the new US immigration rules 2026 is the full rollout of biometric checks. Now, all non-U.S. citizens, including green card holders, must provide facial photos every time they enter or leave the country. This happens at airports, land borders, and seaports.
Before these new US immigration rules, biometric collection at exit was only in test phases at some places. Now, it’s mandatory for everyone except U.S. citizens. Officers can also take fingerprints or iris scans if needed. These details help verify your identity quickly and safely.
The new US immigration rules remove old exemptions. This means:
- Children under 14 and adults over 79 now need biometrics too.
- Diplomats and most Canadian visitors are included.
- It covers private flights, walking across borders, and cruise ships.
U.S. citizens can skip the facial photo if they want and just show their passport the usual way.
How Do New US Immigration Rules 2025 Affect Green Card Holders?
Green card holders are lawful permanent residents who can live and work in the U.S. forever. But under the new immigration rules 2026, they face the same biometric requirements as other non-citizens when traveling.
This means every trip in or out involves a quick photo. Border officers might ask more questions about your trips, home, or papers. It’s smart for green card holders to keep documents like proof of address or job ready.
Also, linked to these changes, there is extra review for green card holders from certain countries flagged for security. On December 2, 2025, USCIS paused processing many applications from people connected to 19 countries under an earlier travel restriction.
Tips for Travelers Under New US Immigration Rules 2026
With the US immigration rules 2026, plan extra time at the border. The biometric process is fast and touchless, but lines might be longer at first.
- Keep your green card and other papers updated.
- Be ready for detailed questions.
- If you have a pending application, check for delays, especially if from affected countries.
These US immigration rules 2026 aim to make borders safer while keeping travel smooth for honest visitors and residents.
For the official details on the biometric program, visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website. Stay informed and travel safely.
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