China Will Collect Fingerprints from Travelers

Are up a traveler between the ages of 14 to 70? You may find yourself providing your fingerprints upon entry to China next time you visit.

In an effort to strengthen national security, China will be asking foreign visitors to provide their fingerprints upon entry. According to a story in the South China Morning Post, the information will be stored for official use. It was not stated if the fingerprints would be shared with other agencies. The new system is designed to be efficient and the Ministry said no unnecessary delays should be experienced by travelers.

The current exceptions are for foreigners traveling on diplomatic passports and visas. At this time those travelers will not be required to provide their fingerprints. China cited the program they are utilizing is already active in other countries. For example, the U.S. has been collecting fingerprints from foreign nationals since 2004.

The first fingerprints will be collected through Beijing’s Shenzhen Airport the last week of February. The process is then scheduled to roll out across the nation to all entry points into China.