Kazakhstan Citizenship Application Photo Guide
Include four printed 35×45 mm photographs with your citizenship application[1].
Official Size and Submission Requirements
Include four printed 35×45 mm photographs with standard and simplified citizenship applications[1]. That is about 1.38×1.77 inches.
The application guide lists printed photographs as part of the required documents[1]. When you prepare your paperwork for the application, check that you have all four physical copies ready to submit together.
Head Height and Framing Rules
The current government guide does not set a specific head height rule for this application[1]. The Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan publishes dimensions, but it does not state additional photo composition rules[1]. Because specific measurements for the top of the head or eye line are missing, you should center your face naturally within the frame.
You can use the tool above to help crop your image to the correct 35×45 mm dimensions. Keeping your face centered helps create a balanced picture that fits standard framing expectations. Always check your crop carefully before you send the file to print.
Background and Lighting Guidelines
The government guide specifies the photo dimensions but does not state a background color[1]. A clean, neutral backdrop helps keep the focus entirely on your face.
Good lighting makes a big difference in how your photo turns out. Stand facing a soft light source, like a window, to illuminate your face evenly. Avoid harsh overhead lights that cast dark shadows under your nose or chin. Turn off your camera flash to avoid creating red eye or unwanted glare on your skin.
Glasses, Expressions and Head Coverings
The guide does not state rules for glasses, headwear, expression, or whether the mouth must be closed[1].
The guide does not provide further photo composition rules[1]. Even though specific rules are not listed, keeping a natural, neutral posture is always a safe approach for official government documents.
Minor and Child Applications
If you are applying for a child, special administrative rules apply. For a citizenship application for a minor, the legal representative applies[1]. This means you, as the parent or legal guardian, must handle the paperwork and provide the required photos on behalf of the child[1].
The guide lists four 35×45 mm photographs for the standard and simplified applications[1]. It does not give separate photo dimensions for minors.
Taking and Printing Your Photos at Home
You can take your own passport-style photo at home using a digital camera or smartphone. Stand about one to one and a half meters away from the camera, and keep the lens at your exact eye level. Ask a friend or family member to take the picture instead of trying to take a selfie, because selfies often distort facial features.
Once you have a clear picture, you need physical prints. You can use the tool above to arrange your cropped 35×45 mm photos onto a standard 4×6-inch digital sheet. Take that 4×6-inch file to any local photo kiosk or print shop to get physical prints. Cut out the four required 35×45 mm photos carefully using scissors or a paper cutter.
Checking Your Photo Before Printing
Before you print your photos, look closely at the image on your computer or phone screen. Make sure the lighting is bright and your facial features are easy to see clearly.
Measure the physical print with a small ruler after cutting to confirm it matches the 35×45 mm requirement. Getting the size right the first time saves you extra trips to the print shop.
Frequently asked questions
What size is the photo for a Kazakhstan citizenship application?
The official size is 35×45 mm, which is about 1.38×1.77 inches[1].
How many photos do I need to submit?
Four printed 35×45 mm photographs accompany standard and simplified citizenship applications[1].
What background color is required?
The current government citizenship application guide specifies photo dimensions but not background color[1].
Are there special photo rules for children?
For a citizenship application for a minor, the legal representative applies, and no separate child photo dimensions are stated[1].
Can I print these photos at a kiosk?
Yes, you can arrange your cropped photos on a standard 4×6-inch sheet and print them cheaply at a local photo kiosk.
Who publishes the official citizenship photo rules?
The Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan publishes the guidelines and application documentation requirements[1].