Russia Tests Biometric Entry System for Schools

In Tatarstan, schools are piloting a biometric access system designed to replace cards and passes. The technology aims to make student life safer while giving parents real-time assurance about attendance.

A pilot program has begun in the Republic of Tatarstan, where students can now enter schools using biometric identification. The system is intended as an alternative to ID cards and paper passes, which children can lose or hand over to outsiders. It also simplifies attendance monitoring and allows parents to know with certainty when their child is at school.

The platform is integrated into Russia’s Unified Biometric System, already in use for contactless payments, public transportation, business registration, services at multifunctional centers, and even hotel check-ins without a passport.

Importantly, participation is strictly voluntary — students and their parents make the decision whether to connect to the service.

According to Deputy Prime Minister and Chief of Staff Dmitry Grigorenko, the system is already operational in 20 schools across the region. After a successful trial period, the program will expand to other regions of Russia.

Biometric technologies are not new to Russians. Starting September 1, 2025, long-distance train passengers will be able to purchase tickets using facial recognition. The same technology will help conductors identify travelers before boarding. By the end of 2025, Moscow’s metro will also introduce the first domestically made turnstiles with biometric payment.