Deputy General Director of Russian Railways (RZD) Evgeny Charkin announced to journalists in St. Petersburg on August 28 that biometric boarding for trains, once implemented in Russia, will be an optional feature. He stressed that passengers will still be required to carry their passports during their journey.
Charkin clarified that, according to the government`s decree, biometric identification of passengers for train boarding is permitted only if the carrier possesses the necessary technical infrastructure. He added that RZD is actively working on launching the biometric boarding system, developing the required regulatory framework and technical solutions for the railway industry.
“It is important to note: biometric boarding is merely an additional option; passengers will still need to have their passports with them during the trip,” Charkin emphasized during the international railway salon `PRO//Movement.Expo`.
The Russian government has authorized the use of biometrics for ticket purchasing and train boarding starting September 1, 2025, provided the carrier has the technical capability.
Previously, in March 2025, Charkin mentioned that RZD was testing biometric boarding in a closed environment. To fully launch this service for passengers, several issues related to the legal framework, passenger data security, and convenience need to be addressed. At that time, he also noted that the biometric system would be introduced as an additional option, and passengers should currently carry their passports for travel.
