New DHS rule allowing biometric screening for all non-U.S. citizens could reshape daily crossings in the Rio Grande Valley

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security issued a final rule on Monday that authorizes U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers to collect facial photographs — and potentially other biometric data — from all non-U.S. citizens entering or leaving the country, a change that could significantly affect cross-border travel in the Rio Grande Valley.

For the Valley — home to some of the busiest land ports along the U.S.-Mexico border — the expanded data collection could alter daily routines for thousands of commuters, business travelers, and binational workers who cross frequently for manufacturing, education, and health care.

Published Monday in the Federal Register, the rule removes prior restrictions that limited biometric exit data collection to pilot programs and certain ports of entry. 

Beginning Dec. 26, CBP will have the authority to collect biometric identifiers from all non-citizens at any U.S. entry or departure point. 

Public comment on the rule remains open through Nov. 26.

Homeland Security officials said the rule will help verify travelers’ identities and reduce document fraud and visa overstays. 

But immigration-rights advocates and privacy groups have warned that the expanded use of biometrics, especially facial recognition, raises surveillance and data-retention concerns.

CBP has not yet detailed how the new rule will be implemented at land crossings.