There is no normatively fixed definition of the term “identity card” in Russian legislation. Nevertheless, the legislator lists the documents that can act as such a certificate in various cases.
In the theory of law, an identity card is understood as documents on the basis of which a specific person can be identified, and personal data about him can be obtained. The legislation of the Russian Federation does not define this concept, however, it provides an exhaustive list of documents that can certify the identity of a citizen of Russia, a foreigner, or a stateless person in various situations. The term "identity card" does not always mean a general civil passport, since in practice situations constantly arise in which a citizen finds himself without this document. In this case, the state provides for alternative versions of identity cards, which, in their legal meaning, are equated to a passport.
What is an identity card for Russian citizens?
The main document proving the identity of a citizen of the Russian Federation is a Russian passport. A permanent alternative to this document can be a legally obtained USSR passport, which is fully valid until the deadline for its replacement established by law. Abroad, the identity of a citizen of the Russian Federation is certified by a foreign passport, service or diplomatic passport (depending on its status). By analogy, before the expiration date, the passports of the former USSR were previously used. Servicemen have their own identity card, which can also be a military ID of a soldier, sergeant, sailor. Finally, the identity of a citizen of the Russian Federation can be certified by a temporary document, which is issued for the period of passport replacement by the migration service.
What is an identity card for foreigners?
The legislation of the Russian Federation also establishes requirements for the documents of foreign citizens, stateless persons, who can prove their identity during their stay in Russia. So, the main document of this type is the passport of a foreign citizen, issued in his home country. A stateless person must have with him any document issued by a foreign state and recognized by the Russian Federation as a proof of his identity. In addition, these persons can replace the identity card with the obtained temporary residence permit, residence permit. If a person submits documents with a request to accept him into the citizenship of the Russian Federation, then he is issued a temporary identity card. A special certificate is provided for refugees, and for the period of its registration they receive a certificate of consideration of the submitted application.
