Protecting National Security From Criminal Actors and Public Safety Threats

Feb 11, 2026

Summary

Allows government agencies to share criminal history information with each other and with trusted foreign countries to help screen people entering the U.S.

What problem does this solve?

Criminals, including those from other countries, can pose a threat to the safety and security of the United States. This order helps protect the country by allowing government agencies to share criminal records to better screen people at the border and for immigration.

Who does this affect?

Immigrants and foreign travelers
Department of Homeland Security
Foreign governments

What does this order do?

Gives DHS access to criminal records

Requires the Attorney General to provide the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) with access to criminal history record information for screening and vetting.

Allows sharing criminal records with other countries

Permits the Secretary of Homeland Security to exchange criminal history information with Visa Waiver Program countries and other trusted allies for their border security.

Requires safeguards for information sharing

Mandates that any exchange of criminal records with foreign countries must be reciprocal and include agreements to protect the privacy of individuals.

What is the real world impact?

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Raises privacy concerns for individuals

Sharing criminal history information, especially with foreign governments, could risk the privacy of U.S. persons and others if not handled with strict safeguards.

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Strengthens border and immigration screening

Aims to prevent criminals and other dangerous individuals from entering the U.S. by giving immigration officials better access to criminal records.

When does this start?

This order takes effect on February 6, 2026.