Russia allows Muslim women to submit hijab-wearing photos in citizenship application

In a significant move, Russia has relaxed its rules to allow Muslim women applying for citizenship to submit photos wearing hijabs as part of their documentation. 

According to a statement released by the Russian Ministry of Interior, the new law will come into effect on May 5.

The country's ministry clarified that if an applicant's "religious beliefs prevent her from appearing without covering her head, she can submit photos wearing a headscarf". 

However, the photographs provided should not cover the face, and photos with the chin fully or partially covered will not be accepted.

It is worth noting that Russian women are already allowed to use hijab photos for official documents such as passports, driving licenses, and work permits.