Saudi biometric visa procurement begins

 

Saudi Arabia has announced plans to introduce a biometric visa system in 2010 that will include fingerprint and full face digital photography.

His Highness Prince Khalid bin Saud bin Khalid, deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, said:"This important initiative aims to improve both the security of Saudi Arabia and the service received by visa applicants.”

Saudi’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) is set to begin procurement of a global network of biometric visa centres this year.  The Visa Service will be established and operated commercially by one or more companies under the supervision of MOFA and embassies abroad.

Additionally, the country’s Council of Ministers has asked the foreign ministry to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the UK to facilitate taking biometric data of Saudis and expatriates intending to visit Britain.

Biometrics, including fingerprints and a facial image, will be required for all types of visas for entry to the Kingdom.