Photographs

Click HERE to see passport photographs requirements on the Passport Immigration and Citizenship Agency website

Quantity
Applicants are required to submit two(2) identical copies of a professional produced photograph from the same film, taken not more than six(6) months prior to the application.

Specifications

  • The photos should be taken in colour with a matte/dull finish, against a plain background.
  • Applicants of light complexion should avoid wearing white clothing and should have the photos taken against a pastel background. (Pale in colour)
  • Applicants of dark complexion should wear coloured clothing and photos taken against a white background.
  • Applicants with grey/white hair should have photos taken against a pale blue or grey background.
  • There should be no eyeglasses and no background shadows.
  • Excessive light reflection on image is unacceptable.
  • Light distribution should be even throughout photograph.
  • Photographs should provide a full frontal view of the head, neck and top of shoulders with ears clearly visible as much as possible.
  • Photographs should display appropriately clad images; exposed shoulders and chest are to be avoided.
  • Applicants should wear no head covering. However, applicants who must wear headgear for religious reasons must indicate their religion at Section H.
  • Size of face should be 25mm to 35mm, from the chin to top of head.
  • There should be a margin of 3mm to mm between the head and the edge of the photograph.
  • The photographs should be of high resolution quality.
  • Only one (1) photograph should be notarised – no embossed/raised seal.
  • Please have photographs taken at a professional photo studio.

Common errors to avoid:

– Embossed seal affixed to photos.
– Too much contrast. Shadow behind ears and head.
– Hands in picture (Baby photo)
– Glare on face. (Too much light on face)
– Head not square (Leaning to one side)
– Facial features not clearly visible. (Ears not visible, hair in face)
– Uneven distribution of light. (One side of face is darker than the other side)
– Height of face in photo incorrect.
– Open mouth, smiling or frowning.
– Poor digital quality photographs.