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Russia Visa Photo Size & Requirements
Russia visa photo requirements follow ICAO biometric standards but are enforced by Russian Federal Migration Service (Главное управление по вопросам миграции МВД России). In this guide, you can confirm the exact 35×45 mm size, 413×531 pixel output at 300 DPI, the required white background, and the fastest way to prepare a compliant image before submitting your Russia visa application. A key local rule to remember is: Biometric passports require live capture at the MFC or migration office — no printed photo is used.
Use ImageGates to resize your image to exactly 35×45 mm (413×531 px) with a white background. This guide also covers where applicants usually submit their documents, which local rules cause the most rejections, and which related country pages to compare before you apply.
Official Russia visa photo rules
- Biometric passports require live capture at the MFC or migration office — no printed photo is used.
- Old-style 5-year passports still accept two identical 35×45 mm matte photos on white background with a light oval mask around the head.
- The photo must be printed on matte paper — glossy prints are refused because the light oval mask cannot be applied cleanly.
Common mistakes in Russia visa photos
- Submitting glossy prints for the 5-year passport — matte is mandatory.
- Omitting the light oval mask around the head that Russian old-style specs require.
- Photos with visible USB drives, jewellery or watches at the shoulder that reflect the studio flash.
Visa vs passport photo differences in Russia
The visa photo in Russia is 35×45 mm, while the passport photo is 35×45 mm. The size is the same for both documents, but you should still verify the specific submission rules for the passport application. You can also compare the alternate document on the dedicated Russia passport photo page.
Popular countries
United StatesCanadaUnited KingdomIndiaSchengen Zone
Related countries
Ukraine (35×45 mm)Germany (35×45 mm)China (33×48 mm)
Frequently asked questions
What is the Russian passport photo size?
35×45 mm on matte paper with a light-toned oval mask around the head for the 5-year non-biometric passport. The 10-year biometric passport uses live capture at the MFC or migration office and no printed photo is submitted.
Do I need a printed photo for the Russian biometric passport?
No. The 10-year biometric (biometricheskiy) passport uses live capture. Printed 35×45 mm matte photos are only required for the older 5-year passport and select consular services abroad.
What is the official visa photo size for Russia?
The official Russia visa photo size is 35×45 mm, which equals 413×531 pixels at 300 DPI.
What background is required for a Russia visa photo?
Russia visa photos require a white background with even lighting, no patterns, and no visible shadows.