Introduction to the New U.S. Entry Regulations
If you’re planning your end-of-year holiday in the United States, take note that new measures will be implemented for entering the country. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued a new regulation allowing them to require the collection of biometric data, such as photographs, from all foreign travelers entering or leaving the U.S., with exceptions for specific cases.
Key Details of the New Regulation
The regulation, set to take effect on December 26, 2025, modifies current rules by removing references to pilot programs and port limitations. This change will enable data collection at airports, seaports, land crossings, and any other authorized exit points.
According to the DHS, this update aims to strengthen identity verification and border security processes while modernizing migration control systems through automated technologies.
The new system will allow the DHS to more accurately confirm the identity of foreign travelers seeking entry or admission into the U.S., as well as verify their departure from the country.
The DHS has also initiated a public comment period regarding the costs, benefits, and data collection procedures across various transportation modes, including simplified arrival programs for flights, maritime entries, and border crossings.
Impact on Visa Rejection Rates
This new regulation is expected to increase visa rejection rates for the U.S. According to Latinometrics analysis, Nicaragua has the highest rejection rate among Latin American countries, with approximately 60% of applications being denied. Following Nicaragua are Cuba, Haiti, El Salvador, and the Dominican Republic, all with rejection rates exceeding 40%.
In contrast, countries in the Southern Cone, such as Uruguay, Argentina, and Chile, have the lowest rejection rates in the region, below 20%. Colombia ranks among the top 10 countries analyzed by Latinometrics, with a rejection rate close to 26%.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the new regulation about? The new U.S. entry regulation requires foreign travelers to provide biometric data, such as photographs, upon entering or leaving the country.
- When does this regulation take effect? The new regulation will be implemented on December 26, 2025.
- Which travelers are affected by this regulation? All foreign travelers, except those exempted for specific reasons, must comply with this directive. This includes temporary residents, workers, minors, and seniors.
- What is the purpose of this regulation? The DHS aims to strengthen identity verification and border security processes while modernizing migration control systems through automated technologies.
- How will this regulation impact visa rejection rates? The new regulation is expected to increase visa rejection rates for the U.S., with countries like Nicaragua, Cuba, Haiti, El Salvador, and the Dominican Republic experiencing higher rejection rates compared to countries in the Southern Cone like Uruguay, Argentina, and Chile.
