The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has unveiled a sweeping proposed rule that would mandate the collection of biometric data , including DNA , from all applicants for immigration benefits, irrespective of age, type of application or whether they are the primary applicant, a dependent or associated party. The proposal, published in the Federal Register and open for public comment, signals a major expansion of identity-verification and vetting for immigration processes.
Scope of the Proposed Rule
Under the draft regulation, DHS would require submission of biometrics for any individual filing or associated with an immigration benefit request, other requests or collections of information , even U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents or children under 14—unless explicitly exempted. The definition of “biometrics” would be enlarged to include fingerprints, palm prints, facial imagery, iris or retina scans, voice prints, and importantly, DNA samples (including raw DNA or DNA test results) to verify claimed genetic relationships or, in some cases, biological sex when relevant for eligibility. The rule would also allow DHS to collect biometrics at the point of arrest, during removal proceedings, or for individuals who have already been granted immigration benefits , thus incorporating ongoing “continuous vetting” of non-citizens until naturalization (if that occurs).
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DHS states the expansion is aimed at reinforcing identity verification, enhancing fraud prevention, combating trafficking and improving national-security background checks.
Implications & Next Steps
If adopted, the rule would mark one of the most expansive shifts in U.S. immigration biometric policy in decades , potentially turning DNA collection from a niche verification tool into a routine requirement for millions of applicants annually. Legal experts and privacy advocates warn such steps raise serious civil liberties, data-security and surveillance concerns, particularly when applied to children and those not accused of wrongdoing.
The public comment period begins when the rule is formally published (on 3 November 2025 according to the Federal Register notice). Comments will be accepted for 60 days thereafter. Fragomen+1 After the review of feedback, DHS may issue a final rule, which could take several months to come into effect. Stakeholders including immigrants, NGOs, employers, human-rights organisations and legal experts are expected to weigh in heavily during the comment window.
For immigrants, sponsors and dependent family-members , even those with existing visas or green cards , the rule could mean newly required visits for biometric services, added costs, potential delay risks, and a significantly broader data footprint in U.S. immigration records.
In sum, the DHS proposal would reshape the immigration-benefit adjudication landscape, placing biometrics , especially DNA , at the centre of eligibility and identity verification. The final shape of the regulation and how courts and Congress respond will determine how far the United States moves down this path of expanded biometric surveillance.
