Belarus will introduce biometric passports on 1 September

MINSK, 17 March (BelTA) – On 16 March Belarus President Aleksandr Lukashenko signed Decree No. 107 “On biometric documents”, BelTA learned from the press service of the head of state.
In accordance with the decree, biometric documents will be introduced on 1 September this year. They will allow computerizing the identification process, easing passport control while crossing the border, and will facilitate the development of electronic services.
The new type of documents will have a built-in microchip containing a photographic image, fingerprints and other personal data of the owner.
In total, there will be eight new types of documents containing biometric data, including a citizen's ID and biometric passport. An identification card will cost 1.5 base amounts (one base amount equals Br29), a biometric passport will cost two base amounts.
Identification cards are to be used in the territory of Belarus to verify the owner's identity. Biometric passports will be needed for traveling overseas (if a person does not plan to go abroad, he/she does not have to apply for this passport). A biometric passport can be issued only when an applicant has an identification card.
The uses of identity documents will be expanded. Identification card owners will be able to perform legally binding actions in an electronic form through a personal electronic digital signature.
It will not be mandatory to replace regular passports with new biometric documents. Regular passports will be issued on the same terms.
People will be free to choose what type of identity documents they want to receive (biometric documents or regular passports). The fee for issuing regular passports will not change. These passports will be valid for traveling abroad.

Belarus news (BELTA)