Kenya Citizenship Registration Photo Guide
Prepare your passport-size photo for your Kenya citizenship registration application correctly at home. Follow official guidelines and print easily.
Official Size and Dimensions
The cited pages list two passport-size photos for the Form 11 children and dependants application and the Form 3 dual citizenship declaration[1][2]. They do not establish a photo requirement for every citizenship-registration application.
Because of this, photo studios use the size most often asked for by offices. This common size is 35 by 45 millimeters, which equals 1.38 by 1.77 inches.
The authority does not set a specific head height measurement for this application. You should confirm the exact requirements with your issuing office before you submit your forms.
Printed Submission and Sheet Preparation
The Form 11 application for children and dependants requires two passport-size photos[1]. The cited pages do not state a general printed-photo rule or show that the same count applies to other citizenship applications.
To save money, you can format your cropped 35 by 45 millimeter image onto a standard 4 by 6 inch photo sheet. You can use the tool above to arrange multiple copies neatly on a single 4 by 6 inch template.
Take this digital file to any local photo kiosk or print shop that handles standard 4 by 6 inch prints. Cut the printed sheet carefully into individual photos using scissors or a paper cutter.
Background and Photographic Setup
The cited pages specify passport-size photographs but do not give a background color or exact dimensions[1][2]. This article uses 35 × 45 mm as a practical crop.
When you take your picture at home, find a plain, light-colored wall to stand in front of. Avoid busy patterns, textured walls, or shadows falling behind your head.
Stand facing a bright window or soft indoor lights so your face is evenly lit. Make sure there are no harsh glares or dark spots on your skin.
Glasses, Expression, and Headwear
The cited pages do not specify whether glasses are allowed[1][2]. If you wear them, check that glare does not obscure your eyes.
The authority does not state a strict rule for facial expressions or closed mouths in these specific guidelines. Keeping a neutral expression with your mouth closed is standard practice for official identification pictures.
Headwear policies are also unspecified by the authority. If you wear head coverings for religious or medical reasons, make sure your full face from your chin to the top of your forehead remains completely visible.
Rules for Children and Dependants
Applications for children and dependants require two passport-size photos; no separate infant photo rules are published[1]. If you are submitting forms for a minor, you must follow the same general sizing and application rules.
Photographing a baby or young child can be difficult when there are no special infant rules to follow. Laying the child on a plain, light-colored sheet or blanket can help you get a clear, straight-on shot.
Make sure the child is looking toward the camera with their eyes open and face uncovered. You can use the tool above to crop the photo to the correct 35 by 45 millimeter dimensions before printing.
Taking Your Photo Step by Step
Ask someone to take your picture with a camera or phone. Check that your face is clear and centered.
Position the camera at your exact eye level about 1 to 1.5 meters away from your face. Stand up straight, look directly into the camera lens, and keep your shoulders level.
Take several photos in good lighting so you have options to choose from. Upload your chosen picture to crop it accurately before printing your 4 by 6 inch photo sheet.
Frequently asked questions
What size photo do I need for Kenya citizenship registration?
The authority publishes no single official size, but 35 by 45 millimeters (1.38 by 1.77 inches) is the size most often asked for by offices.
How many photos must I submit with my application?
Applications for children and dependants require two passport-size photos[1].
Are digital photo uploads accepted?
You must submit printed photographs with your citizenship registration papers.
What background color is required?
The authority specifies passport-size photographs but publishes no background color or dimensions. Dimensions are a common passport-photo crop for practical use.
Does the authority specify head height rules?
No head height measurements are set by the authority for this application.