From December 1, Russia will collect the biometric data of its international visitors at Moscow airports.
From December 1, 2024, Russia will initiate an experimental phase of collecting biometric data from foreign nationals and stateless persons entering its territory.
This initiative, planned to extend until June 30, 2026, will first be implemented at Moscow’s main airports (Sheremetyevo, Domodedovo, Vnukovo and Zhukovsky) as well as at the Mashtakovo border crossing, located in the Orenburg region.
In accordance with the decree signed by Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin and published on the official legal information portal, affected travelers will have to provide a facial image and fingerprints during border control. This measure aims to strengthen national security and improve the management of migratory flows.
From June 30, 2025, the experiment is expected to be extended to all checkpoints in the country and foreigners who benefit from a visa-free regime in Russia will be able to submit their biometric data and information in advance via an application dedicated mobile.
If the experience is conclusive, “these rules will remain in force continuously”
Certain categories of persons will be exempt from this obligation, including citizens of Belarus, children under six years of age, diplomatic and consular personnel accredited in Russia, as well as officials of recognized international organizations and their families.
The Russian government has instructed the Ministry of Digital Development, Communications and Media to publish explanatory information on this new procedure in several languages, including English, Arabic, Chinese, Spanish, French, Kazakh , Kyrgyz, Uzbek and even Tajik. This information will be available on the national public services portal, to ensure clear and accessible communication for international travelers.
“Such conditions have existed for many years, for example for obtaining Schengen visas. Additional information on incoming travelers helps countries increase their level of security »explains the press service of the ministry according to the Russian news agency TASS.
“If the experiment is considered successful, these rules will remain in force continuously”indicates the Ministry of Digital Development.
The initiative is part of a growing global trend towards the adoption of biometric technologies for border control, aiming to enhance security while facilitating entry and exit procedures for travelers.
Related News :