Overview
- The proposal would require biometrics from nearly anyone tied to an immigration benefit request, including applicants, petitioners, sponsors, derivatives, dependents, and in some cases U.S. citizens and children.
- DHS also seeks authority to collect biometrics from any noncitizen apprehended, arrested, or encountered by its officers.
- The rule would redefine biometrics to include anatomical, physiological, molecular, and behavioral traits, enabling collection of ocular imagery, voice prints, and DNA.
- DHS says the expanded data would support identity verification, immigration lifecycle management, security and criminal checks, secure document production, and proof of familial relationships.
- The draft permits requesting raw DNA or test results, including to confirm biological sex where eligibility hinges on that determination, and early public feedback has been largely critical as DHS offers limited additional comment.