WG 1: Immigration and Border Control

Although Europe has entered the era of biometrics passports and biometrics supported visa, we remain at the initial stage of these roll outs. The exact impact on front end processes, especially at embassies, consulates and border check points, remains uncertain. It is of utmost importance to learn from the example of the initial roll outs of biometric systems, in order to better understand how new biometrics applications and services can be better implemented.
 
This WG will focus on two areas: immigration (Visa, residence and travel document applications at embassies and consulates) and border control (passport and visa control at border check points). 

Visa, residence and travel document applications
All EU member states are currently challenged by the implementation of biometric equipment at all embassies and consulates worldwide. As BioDev-I and BioDev-II has proved, it is far from evident what the exact requirements and specifications are, how to test and guarantee technical specifications claimed by vendors, and how to ensure in medium and longer terms that the national systems are in conformance with the EU-VIS and other national requirements. Although biometric enrolment for visa applications and in certain cases for residence permits are the majority, embassies and consulates are also the contact point for EU citizens living abroad. In the light of a cost saving and harmonised approach, e-passport enrolment is required and other services are in the pipeline (ref e-government, etc). Apart from that, the training and education of all embassies’ and consulates’ personnel on how to install, operate and maintain the new biometric terminals is a challenge on its own.
Topics include:
- system specifications
- installation and maintenance requirements
- front end process management
- User Interfaces and usability
- EU-VIS connectivity specifications and conformity
- Interaction with national systems
- Juvenile fingerprinting: the effects of ageing
- Systems security and business continuity

Border Control
Now the enrolement for biometric passports has started, the next step will be its actual deployment at border check points. This introduces new challenges concerning the processes, procedures, specifications, procurements and operations. BEST NETWORK will engage the relevant stakeholders in that area, including governments, border agencies (incl. Frontex) and national test labs. In addition, specific industries will be invited to bring the needed expertise to the table. Authentication and verification process relevant to the European Visa will also be addressed.
Topics include:
- end user requirements
- risk assessment
- verification process
- standards and conformity
- mobile equipment
- user interfaces and usability
- biometric systems security and business continuity