Russia's Public Service Hubs Ditch Passports for Biometric ID in Digital Push
Russia's Multifunctional Centers (MFCs) are expanding their digital services while maintaining high public satisfaction. A new biometric identification system, tested in four regions, now lets residents access services without showing a passport. The move reflects the centres' shift toward blending online and in-person support over the past 15 years.
The biometric identification pilot launched in late 2023 across Leningrad, Lipetsk, Nizhny Novgorod, and Chelyabinsk oblasts. Rostelecom, the state-owned telecoms provider, oversaw the project. Residents in these areas can now verify their identity using facial recognition or fingerprints instead of presenting physical documents.
At the 9th All-Russian Forum of MFCs, Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Grigorenko highlighted the centres' growing role. Over 15 years, they have transformed from basic document drop-off points into full-service hubs. In 2025 alone, the network processed over 166 million requests, with visitor satisfaction approaching 100%.
The next phase includes digital literacy zones to help citizens navigate e-services. St. Petersburg's MFCs will soon adopt the biometric system, further reducing reliance on paper documents. Officials stress that future services will let people choose between online and face-to-face options.
The biometric service rollout marks another step in modernising Russia's public services. With digital tools expanding alongside traditional support, MFCs aim to keep efficiency high while adapting to changing user needs. The system's success in pilot regions sets the stage for wider adoption across the country.
