The Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs announces the expansion of its biometric data collection program for foreign nationals and stateless persons: beginning May 1, 2025, A.N. Tupolev International Airport Vnukovo will join the initiative. This was reported by Irina Volk, official spokesperson of the Russian MVD, through her Telegram channel.
As a reminder, since December 1, 2024, an experimental procedure for fingerprinting and photographing foreign citizens entering Russia through Moscow's international airports and the Mashlakovo automobile border checkpoint (Orenburg region) has been in effect.
This MVD initiative aims to strengthen migration control measures and prevent the presence in Russia of individuals who are either entry-banned or using falsified/altered identification documents. Particular attention is being given to identifying persons who may pose potential threats to national security.
According to MVD spokesperson Irina Volk, over 2.7 million individuals have undergone the procedure since its launch in December last year. The screening has identified approximately 21,000 foreign nationals with entry restrictions or who were wanted persons.
The program does not apply to the following categories:
- Citizens of Belarus
- Children under 6 years of age
- Diplomats, consular staff and their family members
- Representatives of international organizations
- Holders of diplomatic or service passports, and corresponding visa categories
The MVD advises foreign nationals to account for the biometric procedures when planning their entry into Russia.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which Russian airports require biometric checks for foreigners?
Sheremetyevo, Domodedovo (since Dec 2024), Vnukovo (fr om May 2025), and Mashlakovo checkpoint.
2. Who must provide biometric data when entering Russia?
All foreign nationals and stateless persons, except exempt categories.
3. Who is exempt from Russian biometric checks?
Belarusian citizens, children under 6, diplomats, consular staff, and holders of diplomatic visas.
4. Why is Russia implementing biometric entry controls?
To strengthen border security, identify banned individuals, and prevent document fraud.
5. What biometric data is collected?
Digital fingerprints and facial photographs.
6. Is biometric data required for every entry?
Yes, unless the traveler holds Russian residency.
7. Are religious exemptions allowed?
No—all eligible travelers must comply.
8. Which other countries use biometric border controls?
USA, EU, China, UAE, and 50+ others (source: confidencegroup.ru).
9. Will more Russian airports adopt biometrics?
Likely—the program may expand to major transit hubs.
10. Wh ere can I verify official entry requirements?
MVD website.
Photo source: https://ru.123rf.com/
For more information, please contact the consultants of the Confidence Group company.
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