Russian Interior Ministry warns against AI retouching of passport photographs

Russia’s Interior Ministry warned that an AI-edited passport photograph could lead to refusal of the document. NTV and TASS carried the ministry’s explanation on October 10.

The ministry said applicants must not submit a photograph improved using a neural network. It also said rejection because of an improperly made image would not provide for refund of the state fee already paid.

The picture must show the head and upper shoulders. The applicant should look straight ahead, and the facial image must match their age when the application is submitted.

Religious headwear is permitted if the full outline of the face remains visible. Uniforms, outerwear and scarves covering part of the chin are not allowed.

People who wear glasses must be photographed wearing them, without tinted lenses. Contact lenses that alter natural eye colour are also prohibited. The explanation addresses image requirements rather than introducing a new passport type.