Requirements for images for a Russian residence permit

With the help of a residence permit and a national passport, any interested person in Russia can identify a foreigner as a permanent resident. A photo for a residence permit serves to determine whether a document belongs to a specific person. In the Russian Federation, the residence permit of a foreigner is an addition to his identity card.

Basic requirements for photography, quantity

To obtain a residence permit, a citizen of a foreign state or a stateless person (LBG) must submit an application to the state structure dealing with migration issues. Four photos are attached to the application of a foreigner, two photographs are attached to the application of the LBG.

Requirements for a photo residence permit:

• Parameters - 3.5 by 4.5 cm;
• The image is color or monochrome;
• The picture is clear;
• The face is directed directly at the observer / photographer (full face);
• Hats are prohibited. When photographing, you can not take off the headdress only if it contradicts religious beliefs, but even in such a situation, the oval of the face should be disclosed;
• Glasses are permissible only for people who constantly wear them for medical reasons (glasses are transparent);
• The person in the picture must be depicted on a white background;
• The face occupies no more than 70 percent and is in the center;
• Shading is prohibited;
• Do not use glossy paper for printing - only matte;
• The image is "fresh" and relevant, it is better if it is taken less than six months ago;
• The photograph must be provided as a whole without damage.

Photo requirements for online submission

If the application for a residence permit is submitted through a computer online, then an electronic snapshot is also attached to the application.

The basic requirements for an electronic image are similar to a “live” photo: size, relevance, prohibition of hats and glasses, but there are also specific requirements for a digital photo for a residence permit of the Russian Federation.

In 2021, these requirements are as follows:

1. Prohibition of any corrections and adjustments to the photo;
2. Images are accepted only in JPEG format;
3. File size no more than 300 kilobytes;
4. The subject's head length from 32 to 36 mm and width from 18 to 35 mm;
5. There is no red-eye effect;
6. The background can be gray or blue, but not white.

Baby photo

The data and photos of the children are entered into the residence permit of the parents, and the child, if necessary, draws up his own official document, regardless of age.

The requirements for photographing children in a residence permit are the same as for adults. Only provide you need 2 photos, not 4.

Photographing difficulties may arise due to the restlessness or age of children. Very young toddlers can be photographed lying down using a suitable background.

If you still photograph the baby in an upright position, you will have to use the services of a professional photographer who can correct the image (“cut off” the parent and overlay a white background).

Since the appearance of children changes quickly, it is recommended to photograph them immediately before applying for a residence permit.

Self-photo for residence permit at home

Wherever the photo is taken, it must comply with the established requirements. You can take a photo at home, but a number of points must be taken into account:

• Pick up a solid white background. Whatman paper, white plywood or a sheet is suitable as options;
• You will need to correctly set the light to get the image without shadows. The light cannot fall directly on the face, and it is also incorrect to place the light source on the side;
• When using the flash, it should not be aimed at the face, only backward so that the light is diffused;
• The camera must be modern, otherwise the picture will not be clear enough;
• You will need to use some editor to cut the picture to the desired size.

In what cases the photo may not work and how to avoid it

The brought photo may not be suitable for the following reasons:

1. Non-compliance with the requirements described above;
2. After the photograph was taken, a change in appearance occurred, and the image no longer corresponds to the person.

To avoid difficulties and the need to redo the picture, it is better to contact professional photographers in a photo studio and refrain from drastic changes in appearance during the period of validity of the residence permit.

Photos must be provided when applying for a residence permit in Russia.

If the image is made incorrectly, then the application will not be accepted, and the errors will need to be eliminated, which will lengthen the time for the production of permits for permanent residence in the Russian Federation. Only by correcting the shortcomings, a foreigner or LBG will be able to apply to the authorized bodies for a residence permit again.