The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), recently published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that would update how biometrics are collected and used during immigration processes. This is not a final rule, but it signals potential changes that applicants, sponsors, and families should be aware of as they prepare immigration filings.
Under the proposal, USCIS may require biometrics from anyone filing or associated with an immigration benefit request, regardless of age.
This may include:
The term “biometrics” may also expand beyond fingerprints and photographs to potentially include additional modalities such as facial imagery, voice recognition, and in some cases, DNA, when necessary to confirm identity or relationships.
According to the notice, DHS explains that the purpose is to:
It is important to note that this proposal does not criticize or target any groups, nor does it introduce new eligibility standards. It focuses on how information is verified, not on who qualifies to apply.
Because this is not yet finalized, there is no immediate change for current applicants. However, individuals who will file new petitions, especially family-based petitions, adjustment of status applications, or humanitarian-based applications, may see expanded biometrics requirements in the future.
Our firm, Zhang-Louie PLLC, closely follows USCIS regulatory updates as part of our ongoing case strategy and client support. Because biometrics are tied to eligibility verification and case timing, we monitor these developments to ensure our clients remain fully prepared and informed throughout every stage of their immigration process.
We guide applicants on:
Our goal is to ensure each case proceeds smoothly and confidently, even when immigration rules evolve.
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