Troubleshooting & FAQ
Russian visa photo requirements (size, background & rules)
A non-compliant photo is one of the easiest reasons for an application to be returned. Here is the specification for both printed and digital photos.
Short answer
A Russian visa photo must be a recent (within six months) colour photograph, typically 35 × 45 mm, taken against a plain white or light background with the face centred and clearly visible, no hat or sunglasses, and a neutral expression. For the e-Visa you upload a digital photo that meets the portal's resolution and file-format rules; for consular and visa-centre applications you submit one or two printed photos that match the form.
The standard specification
- Size: 35 × 45 mm for printed photos (confirm any local variation with your consulate).
- Background: plain white or light, uniform, with no shadows.
- Recency: taken within the last six months and reflecting your current appearance.
- Face: centred, fully visible, neutral expression, eyes open, mouth closed.
- No hat or head covering except for religious reasons, and no sunglasses or tinted lenses.
- Colour photo on good-quality matte or glossy paper for prints.
e-Visa digital photo
For the unified e-Visa you upload a digital photo on the official MFA portal. It must meet the portal's resolution, dimension and file-format requirements; the on-screen tool will reject a file that does not comply, so follow the prompts exactly.
When in doubt, use a professional
Photo booths and photographers that offer a 'visa photo' service will usually produce a compliant image. If you take your own, check it against the consulate's published sample before submitting.
Frequently asked questions
What size is a Russian visa photo?
Printed photos are typically 35 × 45 mm. For the e-Visa you upload a digital image that meets the official portal's resolution and format rules.
What background should the photo have?
A plain white or light, uniform background with no shadows. The face must be centred and clearly visible.
Can I smile or wear glasses in the photo?
Use a neutral expression with the mouth closed. Remove sunglasses and tinted lenses; ordinary clear glasses are usually acceptable if they do not obscure the eyes.
How recent must the photo be?
It should be taken within the last six months and reflect your current appearance.
RussianVisa.co is an independent guide and not a government body. Russian entry and migration rules change frequently — always confirm the current requirements with the official Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the consulate that serves your country before you book or travel.
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