Visa photo requirements: size, rules & how to get it right
Last reviewed 12 July 2026A non-compliant photo is one of the fastest ways to have an eVisa application rejected or delayed. The good news: photo rules are broadly standardised, so once you understand the common requirements you can take a compliant picture at home. This guide covers dimensions, background, expression, glasses and file specs — and how to avoid the usual mistakes.
The common standard
Most visa and eVisa photos follow rules close to the ICAO passport-photo standard. Typical requirements:
- A recent photo — taken within the last six months, reflecting your current appearance.
- Plain, light background — white or off-white, with no shadows, patterns or objects.
- Full face, front view — head centred, eyes open and clearly visible, looking straight at the camera.
- Neutral expression — mouth closed, no big smile.
- Even lighting — no harsh shadows on the face or behind the head, no red-eye.
- Head size — your head typically fills 70–80% of the frame from chin to crown.
Dimensions & file specs
| Spec | Typical requirement |
|---|---|
| Printed size | 2 x 2 inches (US) or 35 x 45 mm (many others) |
| Shape | Square (US) or portrait rectangle |
| Digital resolution | Often 600 x 600 px or higher |
| File format | JPEG |
| File size | Frequently between ~10 KB and a few MB |
| Background | Plain white / light |
Requirements differ by country — the US wants a square 2×2″ photo, while many others use 35×45 mm. India’s eVisa, for example, uses a square photo. Always check the exact dimensions and file-size limits on the official portal you’re applying through.
Glasses, head coverings & expression
- Glasses — increasingly not allowed. Many authorities now require you to remove glasses to avoid glare. If you must wear them for medical reasons, ensure eyes are fully visible with no reflection.
- Head coverings — generally only permitted for religious reasons, and your full face must remain visible from chin to forehead.
- Expression — neutral, both eyes open, mouth closed. No wide smiles.
- Hair — keep it clear of your eyes and face outline.
How to take a compliant photo at home
- Stand about half a metre in front of a plain, well-lit white wall, with no shadow.
- Use even, front-facing light (natural daylight works well); avoid overhead light that shadows the eyes.
- Face the camera squarely, neutral expression, eyes open, glasses off.
- Have someone take the photo at eye level, or use a tripod and timer — not a close-up selfie, which distorts proportions.
- Crop to the required dimensions and check the file size against the portal’s limits.
Common questions
Can I wear glasses in a visa photo?
Usually not anymore. Most authorities require glasses off to avoid glare. Remove them unless medically necessary, and even then eyes must be fully visible.
Can I smile?
No — a neutral expression with a closed mouth is required. A natural, relaxed face is fine; a broad smile is not.
Does the background have to be white?
Almost always a plain, light background — white or off-white — with no shadows or objects.
Can I use a phone photo?
Yes, if it meets the resolution, size and framing rules. Take it at eye level from a short distance, not as a close-up selfie.
What file size do I need?
It varies widely by portal — some cap files at a few hundred KB, others allow several MB. Check the specific limits before uploading.
← All travel guides · Related: why applications get rejected, passport validity rules, how eVisas work, India eVisa photo rules.