When processing an application, many doubts arise, but there is one mistake that repeats more often than might be expected: the photograph. Although it may seem like a minor detail, it is one of the main reasons governments reject a visa nowadays.
Each country has its own rules, and many are extremely strict. To avoid problems, the following three basic points should always be ensured:
- Full clarity: The face must be seen sharply and the image must be recent.
- No accessories: Caps, sunglasses, or objects that cover the face must not be used.
- Clean background: The background must be plain and, preferably, white.
A small mistake in the image can mean having to start the entire process from scratch.
What size should the visa photograph be?
Although most people think of the typical “ID photo,” each country has its own size rules. An error of just a few millimeters may be grounds for refusal, so matching the image to the destination is essential.
Our advice: before taking the photo, the exact dimensions required by the government of the destination country should always be verified. At Visagov, the photograph is reviewed to ensure that these specific sizes are met, so that there is no need for any concern.
In which formats may a photograph be requested?
Depending on how a visa is processed, the photograph will be requested in one format or another. The following is what needs to be known:
- Digital photograph: This is the most common option nowadays, as most visas are applied for online (eVisa).
- The standard format is JPG.
- It must be in color and of good quality, but without the file being too large (usually under 240 kb) so that the government website allows it to be uploaded.
- Printed photograph: This is mainly used for in-person procedures at embassies.
- It must be printed on high-quality photographic paper.
- Carrying two or three copies is recommended, as sometimes they must be attached both to the form and to the physical visa.
- Biometric photograph: There is no need for it to be brought from home. This photo is taken directly by the authorities upon arrival at the airport or when attending the embassy. It is a high-technology image used to confirm identity securely.
Colors and lighting: What should the photo look like?
For an application to be accepted on the first attempt, color and lighting are essential. The following basic rules should be followed:
- Always in color: Photos or photocopies in black and white must never be submitted; they will be rejected immediately.
- Natural lighting: Flash that creates glare or the “red-eye” effect should be avoided. Care must also be taken to ensure that there are no strong shadows on the face or on the background. Ideally, the light should be soft and even, creating no reflections.
- The ideal background: The safest color is plain white. Although some countries allow very light gray or blue tones, white is the universal standard that avoids any contrast issues.
Posture and expression: How to look good in the photo
For authorities (or intelligent systems) to validate identity, posture must be very specific. The following are the key points to avoid mistakes:
- Head position: It must be completely straight and centered, looking directly at the camera. Profile photos or photos with the head tilted are not permitted. The face must occupy, more or less, two thirds of the image.
- Neutral expression: A relaxed face is best. An exaggerated smile must be avoided, frowning must be avoided, and the mouth must be kept closed. The eyes must be well open and look directly at the lens.
- Eyes visible: It should be ensured that nothing covers the eyes, not even fringe hair. The eyes must be fully visible with complete clarity.
- Use of glasses: Prescription glasses may be used if needed for vision, but it should be ensured that there are no reflections on the lenses and that the frame does not cover the eyes. Sunglasses are strictly prohibited.
Can hats, glasses, or accessories be used?
The general rule is maximum visibility. For authorities to be able to identify the applicant without errors, the following guidelines on what may and may not be worn must be followed:
- Caps and hats: Wearing caps, visors, hats, or scarves that conceal the face or hair is not permitted.
- Religious reasons: Veils, turbans, or headscarves are permitted as long as they are worn for religious reasons. Even so, the face must remain fully uncovered (eyes, nose, and mouth must be perfectly visible).
- Prescription glasses: Prescription glasses may be kept on if needed, but it must be ensured that lenses are not dark and do not produce reflections that cover the eyes. If the frame is very thick and hides part of the eyes, removing the glasses is preferable.
- Sunglasses: These are prohibited in all cases, unless a medical certificate is provided requiring them.
How should attire be for the photo?
Although formal dress is not necessary, clothing influences visa approval. The following practical tips should be followed:
- Shoulders covered: In many countries (such as Egypt, Saudi Arabia, India, or Vietnam), strict standards of modesty apply. Ideally, a T-shirt or shirt that covers the shoulders should be worn, and pronounced necklines should be avoided.
- Contrasting colors: White clothing should not be worn, as it “disappears” against the background and makes the head look as if it is floating. Overly bright or fluorescent colors should also be avoided. Dark or neutral tones work best.
- No uniforms: Wearing military or police uniforms, or any official attire, is prohibited for visa photos.
- Unobstructed face: If there are very noticeable piercings, removing them is the safest option. It should also be ensured that hair does not cover the eyes; if long bangs are worn, they should be moved to one side.
Which countries are the strictest about photos?
Although all countries review photos carefully, some have verification systems that are much stricter than others. A small error that might go unnoticed in one destination may mean that a visa is rejected immediately in these countries.
At Visagov, expertise is available in managing these procedures, and each file is personally reviewed so that there is no need to worry about the rules of each government.
The following are countries that are usually more rigorous with photographs and documentation:
- United States: Very strict requirements apply regarding size (square) and facial expression.
- Saudi Arabia and Gulf countries: High standards of modesty in attire and perfect backgrounds are required.
- India: Very high image quality and specific dimensions are required, with no margin for error.
Which photos will be rejected no matter what?
To avoid wasting time or money, the following types of images should not be submitted, as governments reject them immediately:
- Group photos: The image must always be individual. No other person may appear, not even a small child.
- Selfies: These are prohibited. No matter how good the result looks, selfies often have poor lighting, forced angles, and background objects that official systems do not accept.
- Travel photos or full-body photos: Cropped travel photos or photos showing the full body are not acceptable. The image must focus exclusively on the face and shoulders.
- Old photos: The photo must be current. If it is more than 6 months old, being asked for a new one is very likely in order to ensure that the current appearance matches the image.
Our advice: although phones take incredible photos nowadays, attending a professional or using a trusted tool is the ideal approach. An expert will know how to provide the right lighting and exact dimensions so that the visa is approved without issues.
Extra tips for a perfect photo
So that no detail is missed, the following final recommendations from experts are provided:
- Baby photos: This is the most difficult part. Going to a professional is recommended, as professionals know how to position a baby so that the photo is valid. As with adults, the baby must appear with an unobstructed face and without accessories on the head.
- Do not leave it until the last minute: Many people apply for a visa at the last moment and do not have time to obtain a good photo. This may cause delays or refusals. Applying for a visa in advance is recommended to avoid unpleasant surprises.
- Frequent traveler kit: If frequent business travel is undertaken, keeping several digital and printed photos on hand is advisable. It is never known when an urgent trip may arise.
- Natural image: Care should be taken with appearance, but without overdoing it. Excessive makeup should be avoided, and a clean, natural look should be presented. Facial recognition systems work better this way.
- Digital adjustments: If there is a good photo but it does not meet the exact size, tools on a computer may be used to crop or compress the image. However, it should be ensured that quality is not lost when doing so.
