First-Time RU Russia Temporary Residence 3x4 Application Tips - Beginner's Guide

Requirements

• Photo size: exactly 3 cm×4 cm measured from edge to edge on high-quality photographic paper
• Quantity required: submit four identical prints taken within the past three months
• Background: plain light gray or white, even tone with no shadows, patterns or objects
• Head positioning: full-face view, head centered, occupying about 70–80 % of frame height (5–3 cm from chin to crown)
• Facial expression: neutral (no smile), mouth closed, eyes fully open and looking straight at the camera
• Lighting and exposure: uniform lighting on both sides of the face, no reflections, red-eye or harsh shadows
• Glasses: allowed only if normally worn; lenses must be clear (no tinted or transition lenses) and free of glare; frames must not cover eyes
• Head coverings: only for verified religious reasons; must not obscure hairline or cast shadows on the face; ears and hairline partially visible
• Color and quality: color photo with natural skin tones, crisp focus with no ink marks, creases or digital artifacts
• Recentness: photo must be dated within three months of application date
• Paper finish: matte or glossy photographic stock, at least 600 dpi resolution, resistant to fading and smudging
• Attachment instructions: do not staple or fold; adhere smoothly to the application form’s designated photo space

Step-by-Step Process

• Verify eligibility and quota availability: confirm you qualify under one of the six categories (work, study, family, investment, quota-free, or repatriation) and check whether your region has open quota slots on the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MVD) website—without an available slot your application will be delayed or rejected.
• Gather and authenticate core documents: collect your passport, migration card, valid entry visa, proof of income or sponsorship, housing confirmation, and any category-specific papers (e.g., employment contract or university acceptance letter); have all non-Russian documents translated into Russian and notarized—failure to legalize or translate properly is the top cause of refusals.
• Obtain compliant 3×4 cm photos: visit a professional studio that knows Russian specs—white or light gray matte background, face centered (head height 70–80 % of frame), neutral expression, no shadows or reflections, no headwear except for medical/religious reasons, high resolution (minimum 600 dpi); order four identical prints on high-quality photo paper.
• Undergo the mandatory medical and HIV/TB screening: schedule exams at an MVD-accredited clinic, complete tuberculosis (X-ray) and HIV tests, and receive the sealed medical certificate—this document must be submitted unopened with your application and remains valid for 90 days.
• Complete and notarize the TRP application form: download Form №1 TMP from the official MVD website, fill in block by block (use black ink, capital Latin letters or Cyrillic as instructed), sign in the presence of a notary, and attach the mandatory “Consent to Personal Data Processing” stamped by the same notary.
• Pay the state fee and keep the receipt: as of 2024 the fee is RUB 3,500; pay at any bank using the MVD’s unified payment form with correct KBK codes, then photocopy and staple the receipt to your application—no receipt means no acceptance.
• Submit your full package to the local MVD migration office: arrive at opening time, bring originals plus two sets of copies (one set bound, one loose), queue for initial document check, receive a stamped receipt with a tracking number—verify the validity period and office contact details immediately.
• Track processing and respond to queries: use your tracking number on the MVD portal or call the migration office every two weeks; if they request additional papers (common for proofs of housing or income), supply them within 30 days to avoid automatic refusal.
• Collect your Temporary Residence Permit card: once approved (usually 4–6 months), revisit the same migration office, present your passport and receipt, pay the card issuance fee (RUB 2,000), and retrieve your wallet-sized biometric TRP—inspect it on the spot for typos or photo errors.
• Register within seven days of arrival under your new TRP: book an appointment at the local UVD (police) department, bring your TRP, passport, and rental agreement or invitation letter; obtain the stamped residential registration in your passport—this step is mandatory for all foreign residents and must be renewed annually.

Tips and Best Practices

Content about First-Time RU Russia Temporary Residence 3x4 Application Tips - tips

Conclusion

In summary, first-time applicants for a Russian Temporary Residence Permit must pay close attention to every detail of the 3×4 cm photo and overall application package to avoid delays or rejections. Keeping specifications in mind, verifying each requirement, and organizing documents methodically will help ensure a smooth submission process.

Key takeaways:

• Photo size and proportions: 3×4 cm with head height 70–80 % of the frame (approximately 5–3 cm)
• Background and lighting: uniform light-colored background with no shadows or patterns
• Facial presentation: neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open and directly facing the camera
• Print and digital quality: high-resolution, matte finish, no creases, digital file meets upload specs
• Document checklist: fully completed application form, proof of identity, health certificate, proof of income/residence, payment receipt
• Final review: cross-check all measurements, spellings, signatures, and attachments before submission