Is Biometric Verification Required for F-1 Visa Holders Under New DHS Rule?

As global interest in studying abroad continues to grow, students planning to apply to universities in the United States may soon face new procedural requirements. On 3 November 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) released a proposed rule that could significantly affect the U.S. study Visa process for international students. Under the proposal, all immigration applicants, including those applying for a U.S. study Visa, would be required to submit biometric data, including fingerprints, facial imagery, eye scans, and DNA analysis. The requirement would apply to all age groups and across all types of immigration benefits, unless a specific exemption is granted.

This measure forms part of a broader series of changes which, according to DHS sources, aim to improve identity verification and reduce fraud in student visa applications and other immigration procedures. Officials added that biometrics would also assist in confirming criminal history records, preventing trafficking, and strengthening the overall United States immigration policy. The rule would also apply to individuals undergoing deportation proceedings, giving DHS expanded authority to collect and use biometric information in such cases.

In addition to fingerprints and facial imagery, the proposed regulation would authorise DHS to collect voice samples, handwritten signatures, and eye scans. DNA analysis would be extended to confirm biological relationships or determine biological sex where relevant to specific immigration applications. This represents a significant expansion in the scope of biometric data that the United States government may collect from students and other applicants.

Furthermore, the rule introduces a clause titled “extraordinary circumstances” that could excuse applicants who miss biometric appointments. It also updates requirements for certain categories, such as Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) self-petitioners and applicants for T non-immigrant status, particularly in how they demonstrate good moral character. In practice, the regulation would affect all individuals seeking any form of immigration benefit, including international students, work permits, asylum, naturalisation, and permanent residence. The DHS has indicated that biometric data may be reused across multiple application types, enabling the agency to enhance its efficiency in tracking and verifying identities. This change is likely to have a considerable impact on F-1 visa holders and others intending to study or work in the United States.

At present, the rule is open for public consultation for 60 days. Submissions must be made in English (or accompanied by an English translation) via the Federal eRulemaking Portal at www.regulations.gov. Comments sent by email, post, or hand delivery will not be accepted. The deadline for feedback is 2 January 2026, giving students, universities, and other stakeholders time to raise concerns. This proposal continues the Trump administration’s approach to tightening scrutiny of immigration applications and expanding data collection from foreign nationals. Those planning to apply for a US Study Visa are advised to monitor the DHS website for updates and prepare to comply with any new requirements once the rule is finalised.

Editor’s Note:

The proposed regulation from the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS), released on 3 November 2025, marks a significant shift in immigration procedures, particularly for international students applying for a U.S. study Visa. If enacted, the rule would require all applicants, regardless of age or visa category, to submit an extensive range of biometric data. This includes fingerprints, facial imagery, eye scans, voice samples, handwritten signatures, and DNA analysis. Framed as a measure to strengthen identity verification and reduce fraud, the proposal is part of a broader effort to reinforce the United States' immigration policy. The DHS has stated that the expanded use of biometrics will support criminal history checks, help prevent human trafficking, and enhance the integrity of the student visa process. The rule also extends to individuals in deportation proceedings, granting DHS wider authority to collect and reuse biometric data across multiple applications. This expansion raises legitimate concerns about privacy, proportionality, and the administrative burden placed on applicants. For international students, particularly those applying under the F-1 visa category, the process of studying in the United States may become more complex, invasive, and costly. While the introduction of an “extraordinary circumstances” clause offers limited flexibility for missed biometric appointments, it does little to address broader issues of accessibility and fairness. The proposal also reflects a continuation of the Trump administration’s approach to immigration, one that prioritises surveillance and control over openness and facilitation. While national security and fraud prevention are valid objectives, it is essential to maintain a careful balance between enforcement and opportunity. Without this, the United States risks discouraging the very talent it aims to attract.

Skoobuzz emphasises that it is vital that students, universities, and civil society organisations engage meaningfully in this process. Their input will be crucial in shaping a policy that is not only secure but also fair, transparent, and proportionate. The future of studying abroad in the United States depends on it.

FAQs

1. What is the new DHS biometric rule for US Study Visa applicants?

The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has proposed a regulation requiring all immigration applicants, including those applying for a U.S. study Visa, to submit biometric data. This includes fingerprints, facial imagery, eye scans, voice samples, handwritten signatures, and DNA analysis. The rule applies to all age groups and immigration benefit categories unless specifically exempted.

2. Do international students need to provide biometric data for US university applications?

Yes. Under the proposed rule, international students applying for a U.S. study Visa would be required to submit biometric data as part of their immigration application. This marks a significant change in the student visa process and expands the scope of identity verification.

3. How will the DHS rule affect student visa applicants in 2025?

If implemented, the rule will introduce additional steps in the student visa process, including mandatory biometric appointments. It may increase administrative requirements, costs, and privacy concerns for applicants. The rule also allows DHS to reuse biometric data across multiple applications, potentially affecting F-1 visa holders and others seeking to study or work in the United States.

4. What biometric information will the US government collect from students?

The proposed regulation authorises DHS to collect a wide range of biometric data, including:

• Fingerprints

• Facial imagery

• Eye scans

• Voice samples

• Handwritten signatures

DNA analysis (to confirm biological relationships or determine biological sex when relevant)

5. Is biometric verification required for F-1 visa holders?

Yes. The rule applies to all immigration applicants, including those under the F-1 visa category. This means students already holding or applying for an F-1 visa would be subject to biometric data collection unless exempted.

6. What is the “extraordinary circumstances” clause in the DHS rule?

The proposed rule includes a provision allowing applicants to be excused from biometric appointments under “extraordinary circumstances.” However, the criteria for qualifying under this clause are expected to be strict and limited.

7. Does the rule affect other immigration categories besides student visas?

Yes. The regulation applies broadly to individuals seeking work permits, asylum, naturalisation, permanent residence, and those involved in deportation proceedings. It also updates requirements for specific categories such as Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) self-petitioners and T non-immigrant status applicants.

8. How does the DHS rule relate to US immigration policy?

The rule is part of a wider effort by the Trump administration to increase scrutiny of immigration applications and strengthen identity verification. DHS states that expanded biometric collection will support fraud prevention, criminal history checks, and trafficking deterrence.

9. How can students and universities respond to the proposed rule?

The rule is open for public consultation until 2 January 2026. Comments must be submitted in English (or with an English translation) via the Federal eRulemaking Portal at www.regulations.gov. Submissions by email, post, or hand delivery will not be accepted.

10. What should international students do next?

Students planning to apply for a US Study Visa should monitor the DHS website for updates, prepare to comply with any new requirements, and consider submitting feedback during the consultation period. Universities and stakeholders are also encouraged to engage in the process to ensure fair and proportionate implementation.