Passport Photos: Mandatory Requirements

Published on
December 29, 2023
Author
Fairouz Mokaddem
Senior Freelance Manager
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When applying for a UAE visa, it's important to know the right size and requirements for your visa photo. If your photo doesn't meet these rules, your application will be rejected. Making sure your photo is correct is a basic but important part of applying for a visa. If you don't follow these rules, you might face delays or your visa could be denied.

Use a clear and good-quality photo that fits the specific size and requirements. This helps make your visa application go smoothly and increases your chances of getting approved.

For a successful UAE visa application, your photos need to follow certain size and quality rules. Please note that if photos are not submitted to us as per the specifications then this will cause a delay to your processing for we which we can not be held accountable.

The UAE visa photo size in cm is 4.5 cm x 3.5 cm. If you measure it in Inches then it is 1.77 inch x 1.37 inch. Also, for the Pixel measurement users, this should be 170px x 132px. The applicant’s head portion should have at least 3.8 cm or 1.49 inches or 143 pixels accordingly.

UAE Visa Photo Size Specification

  • The photo must be on a plain white background. There cannot be any creases or staple marks
  • The Photo must be in color (White And Black Photos are Rejected)
  • The Photo must be recent, taken within the last six (06) months
  • Ensure your picture is of the highest quality without any shadows, overexposure and glare
  • Ensure that the photo has a balanced and consistent tone, with excellent clarity
  • Your photo will be rejected if retouched or digitally manipulated in any way using graphical software or apps.
  • The face must be fully visible with no shadows or reflections, and the applicant should not wear sunglasses or any headwear that covers the face, except for religious reasons
  • The applicant's head should be centered in the photo and should fill about 70-80% of the frame
  • The picture will be rejected if there are any other visible marking or any of the above criteria is not met.

Reasons of UAE Visa Photo Rejection

Your photo submission for your UAE visa application could be denied due to various requirements that have been set forth. You may be asked for a revised version of your photograph in some cases. Some of the common reasons are,

  • Your face and eyes are not clearly visible in the photo.
  • The applicant may not be looking straight at the camera.
  • The photo may be cropped or cut in different angle.
  • The applicant’s mouth is open or the photo quality isn’t up to mark.
  • The applicant’s face is not visible for 70-80% as per requirements.
  • The background is not a light/white color.
  • The applicant may be wearing sunglass or a hat/cap in the photo.
  • The scanned photograph may be dusty, or has a mark on it.
  • The applicant’s face is not visible due to any object.

Maintain proper posture, keep your head upright, Your eyes should be properly open and visible, You must have a composed, neutral expression while taking the photo, make sure your mouth stays closed

You must refrain from wearing any hats or headbands. If necessary for religious reasons, a carefully-fitted covering is allowed. however, please make sure your forehead and chin remain visible.

UAE Visa Photo Requirements for Children

  • It's best for the child to have a natural expressions while looking directly at the camera
  • It's important that the child stands alone in the photo, no helping hands are allowed
  • To best capture a child who is unable to support themselves, try shooting the photo from an overhead angle while they lie down
  • No toys are allowed on the photograph
  • Lastly, ensure that your child is looking directly at the camera with their mouth closed and head centered for a fully visible image.

Where should you get your photo from?

To ensure that your visa application is approved it is always preferable to use a professional photo studio that is familiar with the above requirements. It is also possible for you to do yourself using a photo booth as long as you are fully familiar with the requirements.

It is now possible to also use mobile apps to get the correct format but again you will be responsible for making sure the parameters are met. Any photos using apps can still be subject to rejection if you do not follow the rules.

These user-friendly apps come preloaded with all ISO specifications, making it easy for you to capture and submit passport, visa or ID card images that meet international standards.

We suggest you the following apps,

  • Passport Size photo make

For Android: Download here

For Iphone: Download here

  • Passport photo ID maker studio

For Android: Download Here

For Iphone: Download Here

To edit and resize your image, You can also use a photo editor on your preference. However, As per regulations, please only use the application for resizing, any filters or facial alterations are strictly prohibited.