US-VISIT is an Entry-Exit system designed to enhance control of U.S. borders and more effectively enforce U.S. immigration law. This system is intended to better protect the United States, its citizens and all international visitors who are within the United States.

Frequently asked questions

How does the US-VISIT Program work?
Upon arrival to your first U.S. destination, an immigration officer will scan your passport, take your picture and get your fingerprints using a digital scanner.

With the introduction of the US-VISIT Program, is it still necessary to complete an I-94 form?
Yes

Will the new US-VISIT policy for Visa Waiver countries make clearing U.S. inspections upon arrival lengthier?
US-VISIT “entry” procedures have been in place at all U.S. airports and seaports for non-Visa Waiver program country visitors. According to U.S. government sources, this process has added, on average, only 10 – 15 seconds to the usual screening process. According to U.S. Customs and Border Control statistics, there have been no major delays as a result of this program. Click here for wait times at airport primary inspection.

Initially US-VISIT will only be upon entry into the U.S. When will the “exit” portion of the program be completed?
Technology for the exit portion of US-VISIT is currently being tested at a number of U.S. airports and seaports. Full implementation of the exit portion is probably at least another year away. Click here for more information concerning where the biometric “exit” process is being tested.

Does US-VISIT apply to all visitors, regardless of age or gender?
No, the US-VISIT enrollment does not apply to children under the age of 14, or adults over the age of 79.

Is there any special documentation or anything else I must do prior to departing my country for the U.S. to prepare for US-VISIT?
No, Visa Waiver Program travelers are enrolled, or entered, in the US-VISIT system upon entry into the United States.

Is the finger scanning process with ink?
No, it is a digital scanning process of both index fingers so there is no ink and no mess.

How will the U.S. Government use this information collected?
All information obtained from travelers will be stored in secure databases, available exclusively to government agencies and used when necessary to protect US borders and laws.

Is the United States the only country planning to implement this system?
No, a number of other countries are currently testing various forms of biometric technology with plans toward implementation in the future. They are considering implementation for the same reason as the U.S. – to enhance their security and enforce their own immigration laws.

Click here for more information on US-VISIT from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security or visit one of the additional links below:
U.S. Department of Homeland Security
U.S. Department of State
TIA - Travel Industry Association of America