When renewing your passport, applying for a visa, or getting other travel documents, you'll probably need a recent photo. Make sure it follows the standard passport format and truly shows you.
In this article, you'll learn about:
Application photo requirements
An applicant’s photo usually measures like a passport photo, which is 51 mm x 51 mm or 2 inches x 2 inches (Option 1).
Sometimes, your photo could be bigger and show your chest (Option 2).
Show only head, neck, and shoulders; center your head.
Use a photo no older than 6 months.
Choose a white background.
Avoid shadows on face; stand straight, look at the camera.
Keep a calm, serious expression; no smiling.
Ensure clean and tidy hair; don't cover your face.
Minimal, natural makeup; avoid flashy elements.
No sunglasses, jewelery, or head coverings (except for medical or religious reasons).
How to take a photo for your application?
To take the perfect applicant’s photo, you have two options. The first one is to take your photo with a professional or to do it yourself. If you’re doing it yourself, we have some tips:
Use a tripod, not a selfie, to set up your phone.
Capture your photo during daylight near a window for good lighting.
Pick a white wall background with no distractions.
Avoid any filters - go for a natural look.
If you're taking a photo of a child who is 1 year old or younger, follow the tips below:
Lay your child on a plain white blanket; take the photo from above.
Closed eyes are okay for infants.
If you're supporting their head, ensure your hand isn't visible.
Don't place them on your lap.
Don't appear in the picture with them.
4. How to upload your photo onto your iVisa application?
Scenario one: If you've already paid for your travel document and need to upload your photo, follow this guide.
Scenario two: If you haven't applied, paid, or have missing information on your form, refer to these articles.
Step 1
Make sure you're in your account with your application form displayed.
Step 2
On the left side, you'll see the sections of your application you need to complete. Fill them out before uploading your photo.
Step 3
Once completed, select the documents section.
Step 4
A list of required documents you’ll need to upload will appear on the right-hand side of the form.
Click on the “Add document” button.
Read the instructions, to submit a government-compliant photo, before uploading. When you’re ready, click on the “Upload” button.
To upload your photo, you can either:
Select a file from your computer.
Select a file from your phone, using a QR code.
Once you’ve selected your document, click on the “Save and close” button.
That’s it! 👍
After uploading your photo, you can continue uploading the rest of your documents and submit your application!
How to print your application photo?
In case you need to present your applicant’s photo at an appointment, we advise you to follow these tips to get a good-quality photo:
✅ Pick the right photo paper: Go for glossy photo paper.
✅ Set up your printer: Make sure your printer is set to the best quality for photos by choosing the highest resolution.
✅ Try a test print: Before printing the final photo, do a test print. This will allow you to fix any issues.
✅ Look out for odd colouring: When you get printed photos, look for unnatural colors. Make sure the picture isn't blurry or pixelated.