Preparing an Ethiopian Child or Baby Passport Photo
You need a clear photo when applying for an Ethiopian child or baby passport. This guide covers the accepted sizes, background rules, and file limits based on official sources.
Official Size and Measurements
The Immigration and Citizenship Service manages the issuance of the የኢትዮጵያ ፓስፖርት document[1]. When you need to apply for a child or baby passport, you must pay close attention to the photo dimensions.
The official sources do not give a separate infant photo size. A 35 × 45 mm crop (about 1.38 × 1.77 inches) is a common practice estimate, not an official requirement[2][1].
The head height is not set by the authority[2][1]. Because these details can change or depend on the specific processing location, you should always check directly with the issuing office or organisation before you finalize your application[2][1].
Background and Specifications
The official sources do not give a separate infant photo specification[2][1].
The sources do not specify a background color for infant photos. A plain, evenly lit background is a practical suggestion.
Make sure there are no patterns, textures, or shadows visible behind the child's head so that the final image remains clear and easy to review[2][1].
Glasses and Headwear Rules
Parents often wonder whether children can wear accessories in their passport pictures. For this document type, glasses are unspecified in the official instructions[2][1].
Similarly, headwear is also unspecified by the issuing authority[2][1]. If your child wears prescription glasses, it is often best to remove them to avoid glare on the lenses or shadows around the eyes.
Always check the latest announcements from the embassy to see if any temporary updates apply to facial accessories.
Rules for Infants and Children
The sources do not list separate infant photo requirements[2][1]. Confirm the application steps for a child with the issuing authority.
Because babies cannot always follow directions, you may need to take several attempts to capture a neutral expression with the mouth closed.
Patience is essential when working with infants to get a usable shot.
Digital Files and Submission Limits
The sources describe digital photo uploads for online renewal and a printed photo for in-person renewal[2]. Confirm which method applies to your application.
For online renewal, the photo file must be under 2.5 MB[2].
If your image file exceeds this limit, the online system will likely refuse it. You can use the tool above to check and resize your image file so it fits within the allowed limit.
Taking Your Photo at Home
Taking a passport photo of a baby or toddler at home saves you time and stress. Try laying the child down on a plain white sheet or blanket on the floor if they cannot yet sit up on their own.
Alternatively, have another adult gently hold the child steady while standing just out of frame. Keep the camera at eye level, roughly one to one and a half meters away from the child's face.
Use soft natural light from a nearby window to illuminate the room evenly. Avoid using a direct camera flash because it creates harsh shadows and bright reflections. You can use the tool above to crop the photo correctly.
In-Person Biometrics and Next Steps
Even when you prepare your application materials and photos at home, you cannot complete the entire process online. New applicants attend in person for biometrics[2][1].
New applicants attend in person for biometrics[2][1]. Check with the office about the photo procedure for your application.
Always follow the exact instructions given by your local embassy or processing center to avoid delays in receiving the passport[2][1].