Can AI be used for ID photos?

Can AI be used for ID photos?

Today, neural networks can do almost anything: straighten the background, add proper lighting, or even "dress" you in a suit. The question arises: can such photos be used for a passport or driver's license?

Short answer: no, it's prohibited in Russia.

What the rules say

• MIA Regulations (2021): photos must accurately reflect a person's appearance, without retouching or "improvements" (MIA Website).
• MIA Clarifications (2025): a photo created by AI or heavily edited is grounds for refusal to issue a document.
• News: in September 2025, the MIA officially warned that AI-generated photos would not be accepted for passports.

Why it's prohibited

1. Risk of forgery — neural networks can alter facial features, posing a security threat.
2. Biometrics — the photo must clearly match your appearance; otherwise, the recognition system or an officer will not confirm your identity.
3. Lack of trust — the state has no way to verify the "reality" of a generated portrait.

Conclusion

AI is great for creating beautiful images, avatars, and social media content. But for documents in Russia, only a "live" photo without generation or retouching is allowed.

If you submit an AI-generated portrait for your passport, you will most likely be refused. To avoid problems, it's best to get your photo taken at a photo studio: quick, inexpensive, and risk-free.