Russia Now Permits Headscarves and Hijabs in Passport Photos

 

Russia Amends Passport Photo Rules to Accommodate Religious Headwear

Moscow, Russia - In a move aimed at balancing religious freedom with security concerns, Russia is updating its passport photo guidelines to allow headscarves and hijabs. The revised regulations, effective May 5th, will permit applicants whose faith necessitates head coverings to wear them in their passport photos, as long as the facial features remain clearly visible.

This change extends to other forms of identification as well, including driver's licenses, work permits, and patents. The objective is to strike a balance between respecting religious practices and upholding national security through proper identification procedures.

Previously, during the Soviet era, head coverings were prohibited in passport photos. Following the Soviet Union's dissolution in 1991, Muslim women adopted wearing hijabs in their photos, but this practice was banned again in 1997. However, the Russian Supreme Court overturned the ban in 2003, deeming it unlawful.

President Vladimir Putin has emphasized the importance of respecting Russia's diverse population, which encompasses numerous ethnicities and religions. The revised photo guidelines reflect this commitment to religious freedom, while ensuring clear identification for all citizens.