Photo Requirements for Visa Application

Visa Photo Requirements

To apply for a visa is important to meet the requirements of the visa photo. The visa photo must be taken within the last six months and must be in color.

Size

The photo size requirement depends on the country because different countries have different visa size requirements. The head should cover about 80% of the photo. The height of your head, from the top of it to the bottom of your chin, must be 25 to 35 mm. For some countries, the required visa photo dimensions are:

50 × 50 mm
22 × 35 mm
51 × 51 mm
35 x 45 mm

Quality

The photo must be in color.
The background must be white. Few countries require a background of a different color.
The photo must be clear and not blurry.
No shadows must be visible in the image.
No reflections must be visible in the image.
The eyes must not be red from the flash.
The photo must not be taken from too close or too far.

Pose

You must be standing straight.
Your head must not be leaning.

Facial Expression

Your mouth must not be open.
Your eyes must be open.
You must look straight at the camera.
You must have a neutral facial expression.

Clothing

You must not be wearing a uniform.
You are allowed to wear religious attire.
You are not allowed to wear glasses or any accessory that covers your face unless it is for medical purposes.

Where Can I Take a Visa Photo?

You can take a visa photo at a photo service center near you. At a photo service, the professional knows how to take your visa photo according to the specific requirements. Other options include having someone else take your photo or doing it with a visa photo app. The photo must not be altered in any way through the use of technology.

Can I Take a Visa Photo Myself?

You can take a visa photo by yourself, but it is better for a professional to take your photo to reduce the possibility of your visa photo being refused. Selfies are not allowed, but you can ask someone to take a photo of you. You must take the photo against a white background with a good camera to ensure quality.

How to Submit a Visa Photo?

To submit a visa photo, you must follow the requirements of the particular embassy. You will submit the visa photo either by mail or in person at the embassy, depending on the specific country’s requirements. You may be requested to staple the visa photo on the application form. Different embassies have different requirements, so you have to check them beforehand.

How to Submit a Visa Photo for Online Application?

To submit a visa photo online, you must find the link to the online application form for the specific visa. You must upload the visa photo during your application. Make sure you submit the photo as instructed by the specific country. You must meet the requirements with regard to dimensions, file type (JPEG, PDF, etc.), and file size. The visa photo you upload in your online application must be recent.

Can I Wear Makeup for My Visa Photo?

You can wear make-up for your visa photo as long as it does not change your appearance drastically. Your make-up must be light, so it does not distort your real features.

Can I Wear My Glasses for My Visa Photo?

You cannot wear glasses for your visa photo. However, if you must keep wearing them at all times for medical reasons, then you can wear them for the photo. When you apply, you must provide a doctor’s statement to confirm your medical state.

Can I Submit a Visa Photo I Took Over Six Months Ago?

You must submit a visa photo taken within the last six months of submitting your application. The photo must be recent as it must show your current appearance.

Should I Retake My Visa Photo If I Changed My Appearance Since I Took It?

If your appearance has changed significantly, you must retake your visa photo. You must retake your visa photo if you have:

Undergone a facial surgery that altered your appearance.
Undergone a gender change.
Lost or gained a great amount of weight.
You have started to wear religious attire.

Visa Photo Requirements, Rules, Guidelines, and Specifications