Cyprus will be introducing biometric identifiers into passports next year as part of an EU directive requiring all Member States to offer their citizens the facility.

A spokeswoman at the Interior Ministry yesterday told the Mail: 'we expect the first applications from the public in June 2007. They can either cancel their current passport and apply for a biometric one or simply let their passport expire before applying.'

The passports will include a microchip, which will store an individual’s fingerprints, facial image and electronic signature.According to the spokeswoman, the government is in the final stages of deciding which company to use.

'No passports have been ordered at this stage,' she said.

At the end of June, the European Commission adopted the second part of the technical specifications required for the introduction of biometric identifiers into the passport and other travel documents issued by Member States.

Vice-President Franco Frattini, Commissioner responsible for freedom, security and justice, declared that, 'this is a key step forward to render passports of EU citizens more secure and reliable. I am particularly proud.'

He added that the EU was among the first in the world issuing passport requirements with a high level of protection against unauthorised access by providing, 'Extended Access Control, while at the same time complying with the recommendations of the International Civil Aviation Organisation in order to ensure interoperability.'

The harmonised introduction of biometric identifiers in passports of EU citizens will also ensure that the identity of the holder can be easily established and will protect against identity fraud.

ID cards do not fall under the scope of the regulation. Currently, only Member States will have access to the fingerprint data. Whether access for third countries will be allowed has to be decided by the EC at a later stage. Nevertheless, full interoperability is ensured should the EU decide to give access to third countries.

Member States will have to store biometric information in their newly issued passports no later than June 2009.

The issue was discussed at Parliament this week, with the European Affairs Committee stating that they had not been properly informed of the government’s plans.

'There is a strong protest against the decision to hand over sensitive personal data of European citizens to the authorities,' said DISY spokesman Tassos Mitsopoulos.

He also contradicted the Interior Ministry's claims that no passports have been ordered. 'We have learned that an order has been placed with a German company, with the first deliveries expected in March next year.'