DHS Proposes Mandatory DNA Collection for All Immigration Applicants
The Department of Homeland Security aims to verify identities and prevent fraud by expanding biometric data collection to include DNA for over 3 million immigration applicants annually, DHS said.
- On November 3, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security released a proposed regulation to broadly expand biometric collection and use across immigration processes.
- Customs and Border Protection and Immigration and Customs Enforcement have previously collected DNA from some noncitizens using the FBI national database , building on the DNA Fingerprint Act and reversing a 2021 withdrawal.
- The proposal defines biometrics to include fingerprints, facial images, iris scans, voiceprints, and behavioural patterns, expands DNA testing with cheek swabs sent to USCIS-approved laboratories, and stores data in the FBI national database.
- Children could be subject to fingerprinting and scanning as age restrictions are removed, while immigration benefit holders and sponsors face recurring biometric screening with data shared across federal, state, local and some foreign government agencies during the public comment process .
- Legal experts warn that the rule would codify genetic data use and expand law enforcement access amid minimal DHS DNA collection program oversight, prompting significant court challenges.
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62 Articles
DHS Proposes Billion Dollar Expanded DNA Testing for Immigrants
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security issued a multibillion dollar proposal on Monday to increase biometric scanning during the immigration process. The proposal would expand the agency's authority to take fingerprints, DNA, facial and iris scans.
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DHS proposes billion dollar expanded DNA testing for immigrants
(The Center Square) - The U.S. Department of Homeland Security issued a multibillion dollar proposal on Monday to increase biometric scanning during the immigration process. The proposal would expand the agency's authority to take fingerprints, DNA, facial and iris scans.
DHS seeks vast expansion of biometrics collection for immigration benefits
The Department of Homeland Security wants to ramp up its collection of biometrics of individuals applying for immigration benefits, proposing a rule Monday that would expand the agency’s authority to take in fingerprints, DNA, facial and iris scans, and other data. In a notice of proposed rulemaking published to the Federal Register, DHS said it wants to “amend its regulations governing biometrics use and collection” by broadening its authoritie…
Homeland Security Dept. proposes billion dollar expansion of DNA testing for immigrants
The proposal is estimated to cost $288.7 million annually and $2.5 billion over the course of 10 years. The department estimated it will increase biometric scanning to more than 3 million people.
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