Q COSTARICA — Starting on Friday, December 26, 2025, all non-U.S. citizens, including legal permanent residents (green card holders) and tourists from Costa Rica, must undergo mandatory biometric entry and exit checks at all U.S. airports, seaports, and land borders.
This new requirement involves collecting photographs and, in some cases, fingerprints, as part of enhanced security measures by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
The measure, announced by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on October 25, will apply to both entry into and exit from the United States.
The change is part of an update to U.S. border controls.
According to the official statement, all visitors will be photographed upon arrival and departure. Additionally, some travelers will have their fingerprints and other biometric data collected as part of a broader verification process.
The measure does not discriminate based on nationality: it will apply equally to Costa Ricans and citizens of any other country visiting the United States for tourism, family, business, or transit purposes.
According to U.S. authorities, the main purpose is to strengthen national security mechanisms and improve the ability to detect counterfeit documents or manipulated identities.
Furthermore, the announcement comes during a period when the number of Costa Ricans traveling to the United States traditionally increases, driven by holidays, year-end vacations, and family visits.
Although the released information does not detail the operational procedure, it does confirm that data collection will take place both upon entry and exit, meaning travelers should allow extra time at checkpoints. According to the United States, this data will allow for more accurate verification of the match between the presented document and the traveler’s identity.
The measure represents an adjustment to the immigration processes faced by Costa Ricans visiting the U.S. and is in addition to the usual controls, which include interviews, document review, and verification of travel authorizations.
For many tourists, this means planning ahead a bit more than usual and ensuring they carry all valid travel documents, such as their passport and U.S. visa, and be prepared for these additional security checks.
Visitors from Costa Rica planning trips to the U.S. are encouraged to stay informed and prepared for the new rules starting late December to keep their travels smooth and hassle-free.