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DHS proposes rule to expand biometric data collection

  1. Original Date Announced

    September 11, 2020

    This proposed rule would require anyone filing for an immigration benefit, including US citizens and children, to appear in person for biometric collection. In addition, the rule

    • requires the collection of biometrics upon the arrest of any noncitizen;
    • expands the meaning of "biometrics" to include iris scans, palm prints, and voice prints; and
    • changes how VAWA and T-visa petitioners demonstrate good moral character, including by removing the current presumption of good moral character for applicants under 14.

    This NPRM was signed by Chad Mizelle, Senior Official Performing the Duties of the General Counsel, on behalf of Acting Secretary Wolf

    [ID #1038]

    2020.09.11 NPRM: Collection and Use of Biometrics by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
  2.  
  3. Biden Administration Action: Revoked/Replaced

    May 10, 2021

    2021.05.10 Proposed Rules

    This Biden administration action revokes in its entirety the Trump-era policy identified in this entry. On May 10, 2021, DHS withdrew the proposed rule, finding existing biometrics collection requirements sufficient.

    View Document

Current Status

Not in effect

Most Recent Action

May 10, 2021 Action: Revoked/Replaced 2021.05.10 Proposed Rules
May 10, 2021
Acted on by Biden Administration

Original Trump Policy Status

Status: Proposed
Trump Administration Action: Rule
Agencies Affected: USCIS

Commentary

  • 2020.09.07 Trump Proposes Expanded Biometric Collection

    Buzzfeed offers commentary from former USCIS officials and NGOs on the implications of the proposed biometric rule.

    Go to article
  • 30.9.2020 Guest Post by Hunter Knapp: DHS Proposed Rule on Collection of Biometrics

    Guest Post by Hunter Knapp: DHS Proposed Rule on Collection of Biometrics

    Go to article

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