Australia Considers Sharing Travellers’ Biometrics With US to Keep Visa-Free Access
Australian authorities have been tasked with finding better ways to verify traveller IDs with officials considering handing over facial, fingerprint data.
TL;DR
- Australia is considering sharing biometric data with U.S. authorities.
- This is to maintain visa-free travel to the United States.
- The U.S. wants an agreement by December 31 under the Enhanced Border Security Partnership.
- The partnership is a condition for staying in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program.
- The program allows Australians to visit for up to 90 days without a full visa.
- Since 2022, the U.S. has sought access to travellers' fingerprints and facial images.