Russia introduces biometry control for Kazakhstani citizens

Kazakhstanis traveling to Russia will be obliged to submit their biometrics, according to a new regulation that enters into force in Russia on Dec. 1, Kazakhstan’s embassy in Russia reported. Initially, citizens of Kazakhstan will have their fingerprints collected and their faces scanned at Moscow airports and one of the border checkpoints.

«At the first stage of the experiment that will take place between Dec. 1, 2024, and June 30, 2026, citizens of Kazakhstan will be obliged to submit their biometrics — face images and fingerprints — only upon arrival at the international airports in Moscow (Domodedovo, Sheremetyevo, Vnukovo and Zhukovsky) and in the Mashtakovo border checkpoint in the Orenburg region,» Kazakhstan’s embassy said in a statement.

The regulation is set to be implemented at all Russian border checkpoints starting from the summer of 2026. At that point, a digital account will be created for all individuals entering Russia.

«However, individuals will also have the option to create their profile independently via the RuID application, which will serve as an equivalent of the Gosuslugi (state services platform) for foreigners. The app will allow users to report their visit and access various services within Russia, such as obtaining health insurance. The digital profile will be integrated into a range of governmental systems, including Gosuslugi.ru,» the statement read.

The embassy advised Kazakhstanis to prepare in advance for additional procedures at border checkpoints. The new regulation will not apply to representatives of diplomatic missions and their families, employees of international organizations and children under six years old.

In September, some media outlets reported that Russia wants to establish a registry for foreigners residing in the country illegally. Following the registry’s launch in February 2025, individuals identified as illegal migrants will reportedly be prohibited from marrying, accessing banking services, driving cars and even enrolling their children in school.

Earlier this year, Russian President Vladimir Putin endorsed a law allowing police to expel foreigners without due process for certain crimes. He has also signed an executive order outlining humanitarian support for foreigners who uphold «traditional Russian spiritual and moral values.»