2025 Travel Requirements & Tips | Acosta Curated Travel

What Is the New Biometric Exit Requirement?

CBP’s updated rule will require certain non-U.S. citizens to undergo biometric identity verification at departure, not just arrival. This typically involves:

•a facial scan or photograph at the gate
•an automated identity match within DHS systems
•reduced manual document inspection

For most U.S. citizens, the impact will be minimal — but lines and procedures may shift as airports integrate new equipment and processes.

Even Though the Government Has Reopened — Why Travel Is Still Feeling the Impact

Although federal funding has been restored, the shutdown created stress points in aviation and border operations that do not disappear instantly — and these pressures collide directly with heavy holiday travel demand.

Staffing is still catching up across TSA, CBP, and air traffic control

Many TSA, CBP, and FAA employees worked without pay, resulting in:

•staffing shortages
•missed training cycles
•slower onboarding of new controllers
•reduced overtime availability

Even with operations restored, agencies have warned of persistent strain and a need to stabilize staffing before service levels fully normalize.

Sources: Reuters, PBS NewsHour

Air traffic control is still operating under limited capacity

The FAA had already been short thousands of controllers before the shutdown. The funding lapse worsened:

•training delays
•certification backlogs
•reduced staffing at major hubs

Some temporary flight restrictions remain in place to prevent system overloads during peak periods.

Source: PBS NewsHour

Administrative backlogs are creating slowdowns

The shutdown paused or reduced capacity for:

•Global Entry interviews
•TSA PreCheck approvals
•Passport processing support contracts

These backlogs often take weeks to months to fully clear.

Source: Universal Weather & Aviation (CBP Impact Brief)

The holiday travel surge amplifies every weak spot

This year is expected to break records for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s travel.

With:

•heavier passenger volume
•airports recovering from staffing gaps
•the rollout of new DHS technology in progress

even small delays can cascade into nationwide impacts.

What Travelers Can Do to Avoid Problems

Here’s how to stay ahead of delays and make your holiday travel stress-free.

Arrive Earlier Than Usual for EVERYTHING

For the next 60–90 days, plan for:

•2 hours minimum for domestic flights
•3–4 hours for international flights

Even if lines look normal, the system has less buffer to absorb disruptions.

Renew or Apply Early for Travel Programs

Especially:

•Global Entry (renew 6–12 months ahead)
•TSA PreCheck
•Passports (renew 12–18 months before expiration)

Approval delays are common after shutdowns.

Expect Slightly Longer Lines at TSA and CBP

Some airports are still ramping staffing back up. Lines may vary day-to-day.

Use Mobile Passport Control (MPC)

U.S. citizens can bypass long re-entry lines using the MPC app at 40+ airports.

Build in Buffer Time for Connections

If traveling through:

•ATL
•ORD
•MIA
•LAX
•JFK

Leave at least 2 hours between international-to-domestic connections and 90 minutes domestic-to-domestic.

Let Us Monitor Your Itinerary for Changing Policies

Your travel advisor can:

•track airport slowdowns
•monitor CBP rollout locations
•watch for holiday travel alerts
•adjust transfers and connections
•rebook you if biometric testing causes delays

This is especially critical as CBP continues expanding exit-biometric technology.

Final Thoughts: A Season of Change — But Still a Great Time to Travel

New border technology and the government’s reopening mean travel is moving forward — just with some leftover turbulence. By preparing ahead, traveling with the right documentation, and planning through a trusted advisor, you’ll avoid most of the issues that catch unprepared travelers off guard.

We’re here to guide you through every step, so your holiday trips stay smooth, joyful, and stress-free.