DHS Announces New Plan to Expand Biometrics for Visa Applicants

The Department of Homeland Security plans to expand the types of biometric data it collects from visa and immigration benefit applicants, including voice, iris, and facial recognition technologies and DNA to confirm familial ties.

The changes are part of a proposed rule to be released imminently, the agency said in a statement Tuesday. The proposal cleared the White House Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs Aug. 20. Review by the White House regulatory office is typically the final step before a federal agency releases a new regulation to the public.

According to DHS, the proposed rule would expand department authorities ...