How to get a foreign passport in Russia in 2025: step-by-step instructions and tips

For those who are going to travel to other countries, the first step is to issue a foreign passport, an official document without which it is impossible to travel to distant lands. About what types of passports exist, where to apply and what documents are needed — in the Izvestia material.

What are the types of foreign passports in Russia?

There are two types of foreign passports in Russia: a new type and an old one.

A new generation passport (biometric) is issued for 10 years and contains an electronic chip with personal and biometric data (photos, fingerprints). This passport is recognized in many countries and speeds up border control. It is suitable for travel to most countries, including the Schengen area, the USA and Canada.

The old—style passport is valid for five years and does not contain an electronic chip. In recent years, this option has been issued less frequently, mainly for those who need a document without biometrics for special reasons, or in cases where it is impossible to issue a biometric passport.

If there is a choice about which is the best way to get a passport, then you should proceed from the purpose of the trip and the requirements of the specific countries where you plan to travel.

Where should I apply to apply for a passport

You can apply for a passport at one of the following locations:

— multifunctional centers (MFCs);

— divisions of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation responsible for passport and visa services;

— through the official Gosuslugi portal. This method is considered the most convenient and fastest, as applications are processed online. This significantly reduces queues and reduces the likelihood of filling errors. After submitting the application online, a convenient time is set for a visit to the MFC or the Ministry of Internal Affairs to submit biometrics and original documents.

What documents are needed for registration of a foreign passport and how to prepare them correctly

To submit, you will need:

— passport of a citizen of the Russian Federation with valid registration at the place of residence (main identity card);

— the application can be filled out in paper form or through Gosuslugi;

— 35×45 mm color photos (usually 2 pcs.) taken no earlier than 6 months ago;

— receipt of payment of the state fee — confirmation of payment;

— if a replacement is being issued, the old passport must be presented.

Minors will additionally require a birth certificate, parental or guardian consent, and sometimes their passports.

The amount of the state fee, payment methods and important nuances of payment

The cost of obtaining a foreign passport depends on its type and validity period.:

— biometric passport (10 years old): 3,000 rubles — for children under 14 years old, 6,000 rubles — for citizens over 14 years old.

— old-style passport (5 years old): 1,000 rubles for children under 14 years old, 2,000 rubles for citizens aged 14 and older.

Payment of state duty is possible through banks, online banking, terminals or directly on the Gosuslugi website. Be sure to keep a receipt or an electronic receipt, it will be required when submitting documents.

Step-by-step process of obtaining a passport: from submitting an application to receiving a document

— Prepare a complete package of documents according to the requirements.

— Fill out the application on the Gosuslugi portal or at the office of the MFC/Ministry of Internal Affairs.

— Pay the state fee and save the receipt.

— Make an appointment (via the portal or in person) to submit documents and undergo biometrics (taking digital photos and fingerprints for a biometric passport).

— Wait for the application to be processed — on average, the production time is from one to two months, sometimes less when submitted electronically.

— Get a ready-made passport in person by presenting an internal passport and a receipt for the documents.

Please note: the production time may vary depending on the region, and accelerated registration is provided for some categories of citizens (for example, those traveling on official business).

Access is slightly open: how will Russians be able to enter the EU with a 5-year passport

A number of countries, including Denmark, the Czech Republic and the Baltic republics, are no longer allowed without biometrics.

Features of passport registration for children and teenagers: what is important for parents to know

For children under 14 years of age, registration of a foreign passport requires:

— birth certificates and parents' documents;

— submitting an application by one of the parents or a legal representative;

— the consent of the other parent, if he does not submit the documents in person;

— biometric registration is possible only with the permission of the parents.

Minors over the age of 14 must be present in person for photography and fingerprinting. A second parent's permission may be required to travel to some countries.

Useful recommendations and tips for trouble-free registration of a foreign passport

To make passport registration easy, follow the simple recommendations. First, make sure that the internal passport is valid and is not in the process of being replaced. Secondly, carefully check the correctness of all data in the application and follow the requirements for photos.

For convenience, submit documents through the Gosuslugi portal — this will make the process transparent and avoid queues. Be sure to keep copies of all submitted documents and payment confirmations.

Those who travel frequently should apply for a biometric passport for a period of 10 years.

An expedited registration service is available in some regions. Find out about it in advance to save time.