From 25 September 2014, biometric procedures have been introduced by Schengen Countries (*). As of 25 September 2014 The Visa Information System (VIS) which is in use by Schengen countries has been also launched in Turkey. The VIS is aimed to simplify the visa application process and border control procedures as well as fighting the counterfeit of documents and theft of identity.
Biometric enrolment consists of mandatory fingerprinting for all passport categories. Foreign Missions must collect biometric data – fingerprinting of ten fingers - and biometric photograph from all visa applicants. Consequently, all visa applicants, irrespective of nationality, shall be required to present themselves at the Consulate General of Greece in Istanbul, Izmir, Edirne or Greek Embassy in Ankara at the time of their visa application.
The following categories of applicants are exempted from the requirement to provide fingerprints:
- • Children under the age of 12; (are not required to apply personally)
- • People for whom fingerprinting is physically impossible. If the fingerprinting of fewer than 10 fingers is possible, the maximum number of fingerprints shall be taken. However, should the impossibility be temporary, the applicant shall be required to give the fingerprints at the following application.
- • Heads of State or government and members of a national government with accompanying spouses, and the members of their official delegation when they are invited by Member States' governments or by international organizations for an official purpose;
- • Sovereigns and other senior members of a royal family, when they are invited by Member States' governments or by international organizations for an official purpose.
Information on Biometric Procedures
Biometrics will be collected using discreet and non-intrusive process that captures a 10-digit fingerprint scan with a digital finger scanner and a live digital photograph will be taken at the time of application.
You should ensure that fingertips are free from any forms of decoration (henna, for example), abrasions or other markings, and that any facial cuts and bruises have healed or disappeared prior to providing the biometric data as these may affect the ability to provide acceptable finger-scans or photographs. Your face must be clearly visible for a photograph to be taken. You may also need to remove your glasses when the photograph is taken. With exception of religious head covering, you cannot; have hair that covers the eyes or wear a hat or scarf or any other item that obscures the face, hair or neck (with the exception of religious head coverings detailed below).
If you wear a head or neck covering for religious reasons you must ensure your face is clearly visible, from the bottom of your chin to above your eyebrows including both cheeks.
If possible both ears should also be displayed.
If you have cut or damaged your fingertips, you should make an appointment with the Visa Application Centre when the injury has healed.
If the biometric data (VIS) was not collected in the last 59 months by any of the Schengen countries you will be required to apply in person.