St Helena Child Passport Photo Requirements
Get the correct photo for a St Helena child passport by following official size, background, and head positioning rules. You can use the tool above to prepare your image at home.
Official Size and Dimensions
For a St Helena child passport paper application, submit two identical printed photos[1][2]. Each photo must be 35 mm wide by 45 mm high[2].
The head, measured from crown to chin, must be 29–34 mm high[2].
Background and Lighting
Use a plain cream or light grey background[2]. The photo must not have shadows on the child's face or behind them[2].
The photo must be in colour on plain white photographic paper[2]. Stand your child a small distance away from the background wall to reduce casting shadows. Natural light from a window facing your child works well, provided it does not cause them to squint.
Expression, Eyes, and Glasses
Children aged 6 and over should have a plain expression, keep their mouth closed, and look straight at the camera[2]. Children under 6 do not need a plain expression or direct gaze[2].
Avoid glasses if possible. If your child must wear them, they cannot be tinted, and the frames, glare, reflections, or shadows must not cover the eyes[2]. Headwear is only permitted for religious or medical reasons[2].
Rules for Infants and Young Children
Children aged 5 and under do not need a plain expression or to look directly at the camera[2].
Babies under one do not need to have their eyes open. If you support the baby's head with your hand, the hand must not show in the photo[2]. You can lay a baby on a plain cream or light grey sheet on the floor and take the picture from directly above.
Taking the Photo at Home
You can take a photo at home using a digital camera or smartphone. Place the child against your plain background and get down to their eye level if they are sitting or standing.
Have a helper rattle a toy near the camera lens if you need the child to look forward. Take several pictures so you have options to choose from before editing and cropping.
Checking Your Photo
Before you print, check that the entire head is visible from the chin to the top of the crown. Use our online tool to crop the image to the exact 35 by 45 mm dimensions.
Measure the head height on your screen or final print to confirm it falls between 29 and 34 mm. Check that the background is completely plain without any patterns, objects, or heavy shadows.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many photos get rejected because of poor lighting or shadows on the face[2]. Avoid using a flash directly behind the child, as this creates harsh shadows on the wall.
Make sure the child's mouth is closed if they are over the age of five[2]. Double-check that no part of a supporting hand is visible when holding a baby[2]. Do not wear hats, caps, or hairbands that obscure the head shape unless worn for approved religious or medical reasons[2].
Printing and Submission Guidelines
St Helena Government lists two passport-type photographs for applications[1]. GOV.UK requires two identical printed photos for a paper application[2].
A countersignatory must certify one photo when the application requires a countersignature[3]. Check the guidance for the child's application type to see whether this applies[3]. Print the final file on plain white photographic paper at a photo printing lab.
Frequently asked questions
What size must a St Helena child passport photo be?
The printed photo must be 35 mm wide by 45 mm high, with the head 29–34 mm high from crown to chin[2].
What background colour do I need to use?
Use a plain cream or light grey background[2].
Do babies under one year old need to keep their eyes open?
No. Babies under one do not need their eyes open. If you support the baby's head with your hand, the hand must not show[2].
Can children wear glasses in the photo?
Avoid glasses if possible. If they are necessary, they cannot be tinted, and the frames or glare must not cover the eyes[2].
How many photos do I need to submit?
You need to submit two identical printed photos for a paper application, and one may require certification[1].
Can I use a family member to hold my baby in the photo?
Yes, you can support your baby's head, but your hand must not appear anywhere in the final photo[2].