Russia passport and visa photo requirements
Russia uses the standard 35×45 mm format but on matte paper: glossy prints reflect the studio light and are refused. Eyewear is a frequent stumbling block, so take the photo without glasses.
Crop to this size
Opens the cropper with 35 × 45 mm already selected.
At a glance
| Photo size | 35 × 45 mm |
|---|---|
| Photo size in inches | 1⅜ × 1¾ in |
| Pixels at 300 ppi | 413 × 531 px |
| Orientation | Portrait |
| Head height | The face should fill 70–80% of the frame, centred, chin to crown |
| Background | Plain white for passports; white or light for visas |
State services generally accept 300 dpi, which is 413×531 px at 35×45 mm.
What the photo must show
- Photo age. Taken within the last 6 months.
- Expression. Neutral, mouth closed, eyes open, no smiling.
- Glasses. Do not wear glasses. Tinted lenses, thick frames and any reflection are refused; if you must wear them for medical reasons, bring a document.
- Headwear. Only for religious reasons, and the oval of the face must remain open.
- Paper. Matte photographic paper so the print does not reflect light.
- Background. Uniform white, with no shadows or gradient.
Digital photo for online applications
- Format
- JPEG, 24-bit colour
- Dimensions
- About 413×531 px at 300 dpi for a 35×45 mm photo
- Where it is used
- Gosuslugi and the consular e-visa portals, which state their own file limits
Common reasons photos get rejected
- Glossy paper or a visible reflection on the print.
- Glasses of any kind.
- A background that is grey or unevenly lit.
- Uniforms, including camouflage patterns.
- Photos edited to change facial features.
Official sources
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs of RussiaConsular and visa information, including photo requirements.
- Russia e-visa portalThe official electronic visa application portal.
- Gosuslugi (state services)The portal used for Russian passport applications inside the country.
Reviewed October 2026. Requirements change — always confirm with the official source above before you apply.