Starting December 1, 2024, a new measure has been introduced for foreign nationals including Indians entering Russia through major international entry points.
As per the Decree of the Government of Russia №1510 (dated November 7, 2024), foreign citizens arriving at Moscow’s airports (Sheremetyevo, Domodedovo, Vnukovo) and Zhukovsky (Moscow Region), as well as the Mashtakovo road checkpoint (Orenburg Region), will be required to undergo mandatory photographing and fingerprinting.
Key Details of the New Policy
This biometric collection procedure applies to most foreign nationals entering Russia, but there are several notable exemptions. The following groups will not be subject to these new requirements:
Citizens of the Republic of Belarus; Diplomatic and Consular Staff: This includes heads of diplomatic missions and consulates of foreign states in Russia, as well as their immediate family members; Employees of Diplomatic Missions: Employees of foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Russia, along with their families, are also exempt; International Organization Officials: Officials from international organizations who have agreements with the Russian Federation concerning their stay, as well as their family members; Holders of Diplomatic and Service Passports: Foreign nationals entering or leaving Russia with a diplomatic or service passport, or those traveling on official business, along with their families; Children Under 6 Years Old: Foreign citizens and stateless persons under the age of six are excluded from the fingerprinting and photographing procedure.
Why the New Measure?
The implementation of biometric data collection aims to enhance border security and streamline the entry process for foreign nationals. This is part of a broader effort by Russia to improve border control systems and ensure greater safety and efficiency at major points of entry.
Affected Border Crossings
The following locations will enforce these new rules:
Airports: Sheremetyevo, Domodedovo, Vnukovo (all in Moscow) and Zhukovsky (Moscow Region).
Land Checkpoint: Mashtakovo in the Orenburg Region.
Impact on Travelers
Foreign citizens traveling to Russia should be prepared for additional processing time at the border due to the new biometric procedures. This could involve a short delay as biometric data (photos and fingerprints) are collected at entry points. With the exception of a few specific groups, this new policy will be a key aspect of entry into Russia from December 1, 2024 onwards.
