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United Kingdom vs Russia visa photo — full spec comparison
Side-by-side comparison of visa photo requirements for United Kingdom and Russia, sourced from each issuing authority.
In short
United Kingdom and Russia use the same photo dimensions for this document. The other specifications (head-height, background, glasses) may still differ — see below.
Can you use the same photo for both?
Usually not. Both documents use 35 × 45 mm, but the background requirements differ — United Kingdom: Plain neutral; Russia: Plain light. A photo prepared for one may be rejected by the other.
Specification table
Every value in this table is taken from the official publications of the two issuing authorities. Open either country page for the full rule set, the printable layout and the source links.
| Attribute | United Kingdom | Russia |
|---|---|---|
| Photo size | 35 × 45 mm | 35 × 45 mm |
| Digital photo (px) | 600×750 px | Not specified by the issuing authority |
| Head height | 64–76% (29–34 mm) | Not specified by the issuing authority |
| Background | Plain neutral background with clear contrast to the face. | If the official source does not publish a separate background rule, use a plain light background without textures, shadows, or foreign objects. |
| Glasses | Eyes must be fully visible; no tinted lenses or strong reflections. | Eyes must be fully visible; no tinted lenses or strong reflections. |
| Expression | Neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open. | Neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open. |
| Head covering | Not specified by the issuing authority | Religious reasons only; must not cover the facial oval. |
| Pose | Face strictly straight; entire head visible; no other people or objects in the frame. | Strictly full face, no tilt. |
| Lighting / shadows | Photo must be clear, well-lit, and without digital alterations. | Shadows, overexposure, and reflections not permitted. |
| Authority | UK Visas and Immigration | Consular Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia |
| Verification | Official — general | Official — exact |
| Last verified | 2026-05-17 | 2026-05-17 |
Read each rule set in full
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the same photo for United Kingdom and Russia?
Usually not. Both documents use 35 × 45 mm, but the background requirements differ — United Kingdom: Plain neutral; Russia: Plain light. A photo prepared for one may be rejected by the other.
Which photo is larger — United Kingdom or Russia?
Neither — both countries use the same 35 × 45 mm photo for this document.
What background colour do United Kingdom and Russia require?
United Kingdom requires: Plain neutral. Russia requires: Plain light.