Introducing fingerprint checks at the border
25 November 2009

From 30 November 2009, the UK Border Agency is introducing fingerprint checks at the border for passengers with biometric UK visas, entry clearances and identity cards for foreign nationals (ICFNs).

On arrival in the United Kingdom, these passengers will have their fingerprints scanned at border control in addition to the normal checks that take place. These will then be checked against the fingerprints the passenger gave with their application.

The purpose of these checks is to verify that the individual entering the United Kingdom is the same person who gave their biometrics when they applied for their visa, entry clearance or ICFN. Using fingerprints enables us to do this with greater certainty.

For more information about the new fingerprint check process, see the entering the United Kingdom section of this website.

Source: http://www.bia.homeoffice.gov.uk/sitecontent/newsarticles/2009/november/introducing-fingerprint-checks