Estonia Stops Accepting Non-Biometric Passports from Russia

TALLINN, ESTONIA — Beginning March 31, 2024, Estonia will no longer accept non-biometric passports issued by the Russian Federation. This decision stems from concerns that these passports lack necessary data, complicating the verification of personal information.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Estonia, the non-biometric Russian passports "pose significant security risks" and complicate the identification of their origin and issuing authority. This situation is particularly concerning for regions that are internationally unrecognized, such as areas in Ukraine that are currently under Russian control.

The Estonian Foreign Ministry has clarified that all Russian passports, including biometric versions issued from unrecognized territories, will not be accepted as valid travel documents within the Schengen Area. The ministry emphasized that non-biometric passports from Russia do not conform to the standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

"These passports lack an electronic data chip, making it impossible to cross-reference the holder's personal information with data on the chip," the ministry's statement noted.

However, individuals holding a residency permit in Estonia or another European Union (EU) member state will still be able to use non-biometric passports to cross the Estonia-Russia border until September 30, 2025. After this date, holders of non-biometric passports can exit Estonia but will not be permitted to return. They will not be able to cross land, air, or sea borders, nor apply for an Estonian visa.

While neighboring countries like Finland, Lithuania, and Latvia have closed their borders to Russian citizens in recent years, Estonia remains an entry point into the EU for many. Currently, Denmark and the Czech Republic have also ceased recognizing non-biometric passports from Russia.

The decision by Estonia reflects a growing trend in Europe, as nations reassess their border policies and security procedures in response to ongoing geopolitical tensions.