In 2025, discussions began in Russia about the transition to a unified internal and international passport with a blue cover.
The proposed design combines the functions of two documents and brings with it fundamental changes to the identity system.
Simplifying Travel Documentation
Today, Russians have to carry both a domestic passport (red and white) and a foreign passport (burgundy, biometric).
The new “blue” passport, which will combine both, will significantly simplify bureaucratic procedures – there will be no need to change documents when leaving the country and back.
Multilingual Format and QR Code
It is planned to include a QR code, medical data (blood type, allergies and chronic diseases), and information in several languages in the passport; this will speed up identification abroad and increase safety in emergency situations.
New Form, but Preserved Culture
The blue cover with a reference to the blue color of the US and Caribbean passports symbolizes belonging to the “new world”.
At the same time, the inner pages will be decorated with cultural motifs: Karelia, Altai, the Bronze Horseman, Motherland, creating a national identity and aesthetics.
Security and Protection Against Counterfeiting
New security elements (holograms, UV marking, microprinting) should make counterfeiting more difficult.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Ministry of Digital Development are talking about plans to increase the document’s security.
However, some design solutions raises key questions: a calf on a pillow, quad bikes and masks — deputies have doubts about how these visual details will increase reliability.
Prospects for Visa Restrictions
Since 2025, Schengen countries have already refused to accept old non-biometric passports.
The new document, domestic, foreign, and biometric, will help with compliance on international requirements, visa access, and border crossings.
Official and Practical Nuances
At the moment, the new passport is presented as a prototype, discussed in the State Duma.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs has not confirmed a complete replacement — rather, it is a question of modernisation.
Any introduction will require legislative changes and significant infrastructural preparation.
The transition to blue passports in Russia reflects a desire to modernise, unify documents, and meet international standards. Despite the prospects of simplifying bureaucracy and increasing security, the project requires careful preparation and discussion, especially when it comes to data protection, costs, and the cultural identity of the document.
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