USCIS Preposes Rule Expands Biometrics Collection Authority

Key Point 

• Effective November 3, 2025, USCIS has proposed a rule that codifies and expands its authority to collect biometric data from individuals involved in immigration benefit requests 

USCIS Finalizes Biometrics Rule 

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) has proposed a rule that expands its authority to collect biometric information from individuals involved in immigration benefit requests. This includes not only applicants and petitioners, but also sponsors, beneficiaries and other individuals associated with a filing. 

No Age Restrictions 

The rule will remove previous age-based limitations. USCIS may now require biometrics from individuals of any age, if deemed necessary for identity verification or background checks. 

Defined Biometric Modalities 

Biometric data may include fingerprints, photographs, signatures and other physical characteristics. These are used to verify identity, support background checks and maintain program integrity. 

No Immediate Procedural Changes 

While the rule codifies and broadens USCIS’s authority, it does not introduce new biometric technologies or change current collection procedures at this time. 

Biometrics NPRM – Comment Period Ended Jan. 2, 2026

USCIS’s proposed rule on Collection and Use of Biometrics reached the close of its public comment period on January 2, 2026; no new immigration final or proposed rules were published in the Federal Register between December 24, 2025, and January 2, 2026. Continue to check Envoy Global’s Immigration News Alerts page for the latest updates and information.

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