Russia has relaxed its citizenship laws, allowing foreign women applying for citizenship to submit veiled photographs for documents.
According to the Russian media, the Russian Ministry of Interior has issued a statement saying that the new law will be applied from May 5, under which women applying for citizenship will be able to submit their photos with the necessary documents.
The Russian Interior Ministry says that all female applicants whose religious beliefs prevent them from appearing in front of strangers without covering their heads can submit photos of themselves wearing a headscarf.
The statement also clarified that the photographs provided with the application should not cover the face and photographs in which the applicant’s chin is fully or partially covered will also be inadmissible.
Note that Russian women are already allowed to use veiled photos for official documents such as passports, driving licenses, and work permits.
However, Russian officials say the new laws will allow applicants to practice their religious beliefs and ensure the state’s security.