Smile for the Camera: New US Border Photo Requirement Starts This December

The Trump administration is adding yet another entry requirement to an already extensive list of border control measures, as we’ve frequently covered. Starting later this year, a new regulation will primarily affect Canadians crossing into the United States, though it applies to all foreign nationals.

“Smile, You’re Being Photographed!”

That’s essentially what this is about. Beginning December 26, 2025, every foreign national crossing the border between Canada and the United States will be photographed by US Customs. This applies to all entry points between the two countries—from the busiest crossings to the smallest—regardless of your mode of transportation or the length of your stay on American soil. Even if you’re only visiting for a few hours, as is common for many Canadians accustomed to traveling back and forth across the border.

What’s more, these photos can be taken directly and automatically through vehicle windows for those crossing by car, without drivers or passengers needing to exit their vehicles.

In short, it’s a significant change, though it may take considerable time before all the necessary technology is deployed at every intended location, particularly at less-frequented crossing points.

Unsurprisingly, this measure has been introduced to combat “crime, illegal immigration, and visa overstays.” This new tool is designed to supplement the biometric data collection on everyone visiting the United States, allowing for easier and faster comparison with information already on file with the US government. As a certain author once wrote: “Big Brother is watching you…”