An experiment on collecting biometric data from foreign citizens arriving in Russia may start at the Sheremetyevo, Domodedovo, Vnukovo and Zhukovsky airports from December 1. This is confirmed by a draft government decree posted on the website regulation.gov.ru.  

Источник изображения: Press service of Sheremetyevo

Border guard officers of the FSB at border crossing points will collect digital photographs and fingerprints of foreigners. 

Who will not be subject to the experiment:

  • citizens of Belarus
  • children under 6 years old
  • diplomats and members of their families
  • employees of organizations accredited in Russia

The experiment will take place in 2 stages: first, foreigners will submit biometrics upon arrival in Russia, later - through a special application for a smartphone no later than 72 hours before entering the Russian Federation.

The Ministry of Digital Development explained that the collection of biometric data is a common global practice. Similar conditions apply to applicants for Schengen visas.

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