The capture of unique physical identifiers — fingerprints, facial images, iris scans — required by most CBI / RBI programmes during the application process.
Biometrics are the unique physical identifiers — primarily fingerprints, facial imaging, and (in some programmes) iris scans — captured during the application process and embedded in the resulting passport / residence card.
Most Caribbean CBI programmes mandate in-person biometric capture either at a consulate, at a recognised partner office, or via a mobile biometrics service for high-value applicants. Malta requires in-person biometrics in Malta during the residency phase. EU Golden Visa programmes capture biometrics on arrival for the residency-card issuance.
From 2026, the EU Entry / Exit System (EES) and Schengen ETIAS programmes have introduced standardised biometric capture at external Schengen borders for all third-country nationals — including CBI passport holders.