DHS Proposes Expanding Biometrics Collection for Immigration Benefits

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has introduced a new proposal that could significantly expand how biometrics are collected and used in immigration cases. If finalized, this rule would give U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) broader authority to collect data such as fingerprints, facial images, iris scans, voice prints, and even DNA samples from applicants, petitioners, and others connected to an immigration benefit request.

What the Proposed Rule Would Do

Under the proposal, DHS would no longer limit biometric collection to foreign nationals applying for certain immigration benefits. Instead, the agency could collect biometrics from U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents, and other individuals associated with immigration filings.

The proposal would also:

• Allow DNA testing to verify family relationships or confirm an individual’s identity.

  
  

• Permit biometric collection from children under 14, who are currently exempt in many cases.

  
  

• Authorize biometrics for sponsors and other individuals connected to benefit applications, such as those filing family-based petitions or affidavits of support.

  
  

• Shift USCIS’s data systems from a primarily “biographic” model—relying on written information—to a more extensive biometric identity management system.

  
  

According to DHS, this approach is meant to enhance identity verification, prevent fraud, and improve national security screening throughout the immigration process.

Privacy and Civil Liberties Concerns

While the government emphasizes security and efficiency, privacy advocates and some lawmakers have raised concerns. The proposed expansion could give DHS authority to collect and store sensitive personal data from millions of people, including U.S. citizens who are simply sponsoring a relative.

There are also questions about how DNA samples and other biometric data would be stored, how long they would be kept, and who would have access to them. Critics argue that such measures may go beyond what is necessary for immigration adjudications and could create new privacy risks.

What This Means for Applicants and Petitioners

If this rule becomes final, individuals applying for immigration benefits—or even those supporting an application—may face additional steps involving biometrics. This could lead to longer processing times, additional appointments, and new compliance obligations.

For family-based cases, petitioners and sponsors might also be required to appear for biometric collection, even if they are U.S. citizens.

Current Status

This is still a proposed rule, not a final regulation. DHS will collect public comments before deciding whether and how to implement it. Until then, current biometric procedures remain the same.

Tran Flores Law will continue monitoring this proposal and will provide updates if it moves forward or if any guidance is issued by USCIS.

How Tran Flores Law Can Help

Understanding how regulatory changes affect your immigration case can be challenging. Our team is here to explain how new rules may impact you, your family, or your petition process, and to guide you through any new biometric requirements once they take effect.

If you have questions about your case or upcoming immigration filings, contact Tran Flores Law at (512) 894-9984 to schedule a consultation.