Fingerprints for the Russian visa from 10 December 2014
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Update: 01 December 2014. The finger scans will be required from 10 December 2014. No exact procedure has been announced yet.
Starting in January 2015, Russian consulates in the United Kingdom will launch fingerprinting technology for all visas. Biometric visas is a new project for the Russian authorities and exact operational procedures (addresses, need for appointment, required time for fingers scanning, etc. will be announced by the Russian Consulate in a due course). We will update all our customers once more information is known. In the meantime please read the most frequently asked questions about the biometric visas below.
What does it mean for me?
Starting from January 2015 British passport holders will have to visit Russian visa application centres in person to take a scan of their fingerprints. This will be an organised process with no unnecessary queues as all will be done on an appointment basis.
What if I have a non-UK nationality?
At the moment the scan of fingerprints for visas will be rolled in the UK, Denmark, Namibia and Myanmar. If you have other passport (EU, USA, Australian, etc.) you will not be required to take scans of your fingerprints.
Do I need to go to London to have my fingers scanned?
No, the Russian authorities will be setting up multiple application centres across the country. Centres are planned to be opened in the Midlands, the South and Edinburgh. London visa application centre will also have fingerprint facilities. More details to follow.
Is it difficult to get the Russian visa?
We have been dealing with various visas for many years now and can reassure you that the Russian visa application process is very straightforward, you just need to follow the rules and we are here to help. Fingerprinting technology does not change other requirements for the Russian visa which remain the same. Read more about the Russian tourist visa.
What assistance do you provide?
As usual all visa fees are included in the price of the holiday. When you book a tour with us, we email detailed guidance notes how to complete your form and our visa team checks your Russian visa application before it is submitted to the consulate.
For your convenience when going to the Russian centres to scan your fingerprints we can assist you with all domestic transportation within the UK: train tickets, car transfers, etc.
Why do they introduce this technology?
This is done in line with reciprocal arrangements as British authorities introduced the technology for the Russian applicants 5 years ago. Biometrical information will also help fighting illegal border crossing as extra security is introduced for people identification.
What next?
If you are planning to visit Russia in the near future we can advise to apply for your visa until the end of 2014 as you will not be required to take scans of your fingerprints. You can apply for the Russian visa any time before your planned trip. Read more about Russian tourist visa. Alternatively choose and book a tour with us before 30 Nov 2014 and make use of our special offer below.
We are currently running a special promotion for all tours booked before 30 November 2014 (extended till 05 December 2014). Hurry up, book now & we will sort your visas before the new rules take effect as no biometrics is required now and you can apply for the Russian visa any time prior to your trip. And on top get an amazing £100 discount per person. Online Booking Code: NOBIOVISAS
You get:
- Convenience: no need to get fingers scanned
- Discount £100 per person
- Visa processing included in the price
- No tour price increases for 2015
- Full ATOL protection of your payments
Information regarding new requirements is based on the interview of the Head of Consular Department of the Russian Foreign Ministry Mr Ivanov to the Russian news agency Interfax, 28 September 2014
December 01, 2014