Kenya Electronic Travel Authorisation Photo Guide
The eTA application asks for a selfie or passport-type photo[1]. The official pages do not give photo dimensions or a background color requirement[1][2].
Official Size and Format
The eTA application asks each traveller for a selfie or passport-type photo[1]. The official pages do not state exact photo dimensions. This guide uses 35 × 45 mm (about 1.38 × 1.77 in) as a practical crop, not an official size.
The official pages do not state a head-height measurement for the photo[1][2]. Because the submission is completely digital, you should focus on making your face clearly visible and centered in the frame.
Background and Lighting
The application asks for a selfie or passport-type photo[1]. The official pages do not state a background color requirement[1][2].
To make your photo clear, face a window with natural light. Avoid harsh shadows on your face or on the wall behind you. Good lighting helps the system see your features clearly without distortion. Turning off the flash on your camera can also prevent bright reflections and strange skin tones.
Glasses, Expression, and Headwear
You might wonder about wearing glasses in your photo. Glasses are unspecified by the official rules[1]. However, glare on your lenses can hide your eyes, so it is often better to remove them before you take the picture.
Headwear is also unspecified in the guidelines[1]. If you wear a head covering for religious reasons, make sure it does not cast shadows on your face. Your facial features from your chin to the top of your forehead should remain visible.
Rules for Children and Infants
If you are traveling with family, you need to plan for every applicant in your group. The eTA is required for visitors including infants and children; no separate photo rules are given[2].
Taking a photo of a baby can be tricky when they move around. Try laying your child on a plain light blanket or sheet if they cannot sit up alone. Keep the camera steady and take several shots so you have a good option to choose from.
Digital Submission and File Limits
Your application is entirely online. You will upload your photo directly to the portal[1]. The authority does not list a specific minimum or maximum file size limit[1].
Use a clear, in-focus image. The cited pages do not specify a file format or say that image quality affects processing time or rejection.
Taking Your Photo at Home
The application accepts a selfie or passport-type photo[1]. If you take a photo at home, use a clear image with your face visible.
Check your photo on a screen before you finish. Look for good lighting, a clear focus, and a neutral posture. Once you are happy with the picture, you can use the tool above to format it correctly.
Checking Your Photo
Before you upload your picture to the portal, take a close look at the details. Zoom in on your face to check if your eyes are sharp and your skin tone looks natural. If the image is blurry, dark, or grainy, take another one in better light.
Checking the framing is also important. Keep your head near the middle of the picture with some space around your shoulders. This helps the tool crop your photo to the standard 35 by 45 millimeters without cutting off any part of your head.
Frequently asked questions
What size should the photo be?
Are glasses allowed in the photo?
Glasses are unspecified by the official rules[1]. It is best to avoid glare on the lenses so your eyes remain fully visible.
Do children and infants need a photo?
The eTA is required for visitors including infants and children; no separate photo rules are given[2].
What background color do I need?
How do I submit the photo?
You submit the photo digitally through the online application portal[1].
Can I use a smartphone to take the picture?
Yes, a smartphone camera works well as long as the image is clear, well-lit, and shows your face directly.