St Helena Visitor E-Visa Photo Requirements and Guidelines
For a St Helena e-visa application, you must scan and upload a photo that follows the Immigration Service's photo guidance[1].
Official Size and Head Dimensions
The photo should be 35 mm wide by 45 mm high[1].
The head, measured from crown to chin, should be 29–34 mm high[1].
Check that the photo follows the listed size and head-height guidance[1].
Check that the photo is 35 mm wide by 45 mm high and that the head, measured from crown to chin, is 29–34 mm high[1].
Background and Lighting
The photo should have a plain cream or light grey background. It should be a colour photo on plain white paper, printed to a professional standard, then scanned and uploaded[1].
When taking your photo, choose a location with even, soft lighting to avoid harsh shadows on your face or behind you. Stand a short distance away from the background to keep it uniform and free of distracting objects or patterns.
Natural light from a large window often provides the best illumination. Make sure the light falls evenly across both sides of your face without creating dark spots.
Stand a short distance from the background and use even lighting to reduce shadows.
Expression, Eyes, and Glasses
You must maintain a neutral expression with your mouth closed when the photo is taken[1]. Do not smile, frown, or open your mouth.
Glasses are allowed only if they meet the photo guidance; do not wear tinted glasses[1].
A head covering is allowed for religious or medical reasons. Do not cover your face[1].
Keep a neutral expression and your mouth closed. If you wear glasses, make sure they do not obscure your eyes[1].
Rules for Children and Infants
Special rules apply when photographing young applicants for a St Helena visitor e-visa. Children under the age of six do not need to look directly at the camera and are not required to maintain a neutral expression[1].
Children must be alone in the photo. Babies must not hold toys or use dummies[1].
Infants under the age of one are not required to have their eyes open[1]. If someone needs to support an infant during the photo shoot, a supporting hand must not show in the final image[1].
For babies, use a plain background and make sure no supporting hand appears in the photo. Children must be alone; babies must not hold toys or use dummies[1].
Digital Submission and File Requirements
A scanned photo is a required supporting document for the application[1]. The Immigration Service may also require fingerprints and a face photograph as biometric data[1].
The FAQ gives dimensions for the printed photo but does not specify pixel dimensions or a file-size limit[1].
Always check the official application portal for any new updates regarding file formats or upload procedures before you submit your documents.
Scan the professionally printed photo and upload it through the e-visa application portal[1][2].
How to Take Your Photo at Home
You can take the photo at home. Make sure it follows the official guidance on framing, background, and lighting[1].
Face forward and look straight at the camera[1].
Check the photo's head height, expression, and background against the official guidance[1].
Check that the photo meets the stated size, head-height, background, and expression guidance before scanning it[1].
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct photo size for a St Helena visitor e-visa?
The photo should be 35 mm wide by 45 mm high[1].
What background color is required?
Use a plain cream or light grey background. The photo should be in colour on plain white paper, professionally printed, then scanned and uploaded[1].
Can I wear glasses in the photo?
Glasses are allowed only if they meet the photo guidance; do not wear tinted glasses[1].
Are babies subject to different rules?
Infants under one do not need their eyes open. Children under 6 do not need a neutral expression or direct gaze. Children must be alone; babies must not hold toys or use dummies[1].
How do I submit the photo to the authority?
What happens after I upload my photo?
The authority reviews your uploaded documents and may also require face and fingerprint biometrics as part of your application[1].