A new technology may soon be present at U.S. borders.
In addition to the updated U.S. travel rules and safety advisories including registration and fingerprinting, Canadians could encounter new obstacles when crossing into the U.S. at land borders.
For the moment, the process remains relatively straightforward (check out what happened when we recently tried to cross the U.S. border by land): a passport check and a few routine questions.
However, upcoming changes may involve the implementation of advanced technologies including facial biometrics.
When will facial biometrics be implemented at U.S. Customs and Border Protection?
There is currently no timetable for when this is set to take place. We will update as soon as more information is available.
What are the types of biometrics technology available at land border ports of entry?
There are currently two types of biometrics available:
Pedestrian:
Biometric facial comparison technology used to process travelers entering the United States through land border ports of entry on foot. Used for processing entry into the United States and I-94s.
Vehicle:
Biometric facial comparison technology used to process travelers entering the United States through land border ports of entry in personally owned vehicles. Biometric facial comparison technology is currently in testing.
According to a report by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, here are the origins of CBP Biometrics Technology:
For more than a decade, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has been testing the viability of biometrics technology on the processes for entering and leaving the United States.
The use of biometrics technology at CBP stems from the 9/11 Commission Report, which authorized the federal government to use an automated system to record the arrivals and departures of visitors at all air, land, and sea ports of entry.
As technologies have evolved, facial comparison has proven to be one of the most effective solutions providing safer, more secure travel.
RECOMMENDED:
Best things to do in Montreal right now
Complete guide to the best restaurants in Montreal
Best attractions in Montreal