Applicants for protection, foreigners detained at state border to be fingerprinted in Moldova

Applicants for protection on the territory of Moldova and foreigners detained at the state border will be fingerprinted. Interior Minister Daniella Misail-Nichitin said   that taking the fingerprints of foreigners was beneficial for managing international protection applications and combating crime.

According to a draft approved by the government today, through the modernization of the fingerprint registration system, authorities are strengthening the capacity to prevent crimes, protect citizens and efficiently manage international protection applications.

Daniella Misail-Nichitin also said that digital fingerprints allowed for the quick identification of individuals and contributed to enhancing the personal safety of applicants by ensuring accurate identification.

In this regard, identity confusions will be avoided, especially in situations where false documents or multiple identities are used. Thus, if the perpetrator of a crime is a foreign applicant for protection on Moldova’s territory, they can be identified, even if they do not possess documents or attempt to conceal their identity.

The fingerprint registration process will be compatible with the European EURODAC system, allowing for closer cooperation with EU partners.