Passport photos have specific size requirements that must be met for your application to be accepted. Understanding these dimensions is crucial to avoid delays in processing. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of passport photo size requirements.
Standard Passport Photo Dimensions
Generally, passport photos must measure 45mm high by 35mm wide. This is a standard size used in most photo booths worldwide. It’s essential to ensure your photos adhere to these exact dimensions, as deviations can lead to rejection. Don’t submit a cut-down version of a larger picture; use a photo specifically taken for passport purposes.
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Head Size Requirements
Within the 45mm x 35mm photo, the image of your head, from the crown to the chin, must be between 29mm and 34mm high. This ensures your face is clearly visible and identifiable.
Photo Quality Guidelines
In addition to size, passport photos must meet specific quality standards:
- Professional Printing: Photos should be professionally printed on high-quality photographic paper.
- Clarity and Focus: The image must be sharp, in focus, and free from blurring.
- Color and Background: Use color photos with a plain cream or light grey background. The background must be in clear contrast to your face.
- Condition: Photos must be undamaged, without creases, tears, or marks. They should be printed on plain white paper with no borders.
- Unaltered Images: Do not use computer software to alter the photo in any way.
Essential Photo Composition Rules
The composition of your passport photo is also critical:
- Framing: The photo should be a close-up of your head and upper shoulders, with no other objects or people visible.
- Facial Expression: Maintain a neutral expression with your mouth closed and eyes open and visible. Avoid smiling or frowning. Hair should not obscure your eyes.
- Head Coverings: Head coverings are generally not permitted unless worn for religious or medical reasons. Even then, your face must be fully visible.
- Glasses: If you wear glasses daily, you can wear them in your photo. However, avoid sunglasses or tinted lenses. Ensure there’s no glare, reflection, or shadow on your eyes, and your eyes are fully visible through the lenses.
- Lighting: Ensure there are no shadows on your face or in the background. ‘Red eye’ is also unacceptable.
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Guidelines for Photos of Babies and Children
Specific guidelines apply to photos of infants and children:
- Solo Photos: Children must be alone in the photo, without toys, dummies, or other people.
- Pose Requirements: Children under 6 do not need to look directly at the camera or have a neutral expression.
- Infants Under One: Babies under one year old do not need to have their eyes open. You can support their head with your hand, but your hand must not be visible in the photo.
Submitting Printed Photos
If you are submitting printed photos with a paper application, remember:
- Identical Copies: Provide two identical photos.
- Loose Photos: Do not attach the photos to your application form; submit them separately.
Ensuring your passport photos meet these size and quality requirements will help streamline your application process.
