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Biometric
The British Government is introducing biometric data collection (ten-finger
scans and a digital photograph for each applicant) as part of a world-wide
biometric identification process, designed to protect an individual’s identity,
facilitate future entry to the UK, and combat visa fraud and abuse of the UK’s
immigration and asylum systems.
With effect from 21 June 2007 all visa applicants aged five or over,
irrespective of nationality, will have to apply in person at the Visa
Application Centre in Bangkok and provide their fingerscans and a digital
photograph in support of their application.
All visa applicants must provide their biometric data, with the exception of:-
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United Nations officials holding UN travel documents who are travelling on
official UN business.
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Commonwealth and NATO armed forces personnel posted for service in the UK.
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Holders of a certificate of entitlement confirming right of abode in the United
Kingdom.
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Children under the age of five.
The application cannot be processed if an applicant refuses, or cannot provide,
acceptable biometric data.
Fingerscans will be collected from each applicant by using an electronic
scanner. No ink, liquid or chemical will be used and the procedure will take no
more than two minutes to complete.
Applicants are asked to ensure that their fingertips are free from any forms of
decoration, abrasions or other markings, and that any facial cuts and bruises
have healed or disappeared as these may affect their ability to provide
acceptable fingerscans and photographs. Digital photographs cannot be taken
with applicants wearing glasses or coverings that hide the face or neck.
For further information about the application process please contact our
commercial partners, VFS Global:
The British Government remains committed to an Immigration system that operates
in the interests of both the security and prosperity of the UK and provides a
fair and convenient service for our foreign friends. The programme will
increase the integrity of the immigration process by fixing the identity of
visa applicants and make a crucial contribution to the fight against
international terrorism and organised crime.
It remains our commitment to ensure the integrity of our visa process. Any
applicant submitting false documentation or other information in support of
their application may be refused a visa and the matter may be referred to the
local authorities. After successful completion of biometrics, applicants will
be cleared to leave the application centre with a stamp on their receipt
confirming completion of process.
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