Preparing Your Nigerian Permanent Voter's Card Photo
Get ready for your Permanent Voter's Card application by learning what the Independent National Electoral Commission expects for your photo. Use the tool above to crop your image to the right size.
Size and Dimensions
INEC does not publish a photo size in the cited sources[1][2]. A 35 × 45 mm crop is sometimes used in practice, but it is not an INEC specification. INEC generally captures the photo during registration.
INEC does not specify photo dimensions in the cited sources[1][2]. If you prepare a 35 × 45 mm practice crop, it is about 1.38 × 1.77 inches, but that size is not an official requirement.
Keep in mind that the photo is generally captured as part of the registration process itself[1][2].
Background and Lighting
INEC requires facial photo capture during voter registration or revalidation but does not publish a background colour on the cited pages[1][2]. When you take a photo at home for your own preparation, finding the right background and lighting makes a big difference.
Stand in front of a plain, neutral wall so nothing distracts from your face. Face a window to catch soft, natural light that illuminates both sides of your face evenly. Avoid standing under harsh overhead lights that cast dark shadows under your eyes or nose.
If someone else takes the picture for you, ask them to stand about one to one-and-a-half meters away. Keep the camera lens right at your eye level to prevent any strange angles or facial distortion.
Head Height and Framing
The head height is not set by the authority[1][2]. Even without a strict official rule for head measurements, you should frame your shot so your head and shoulders look balanced and centered.
Leave a small, even amount of space around the top and sides of your head. Look straight into the camera lens with a natural expression. Keep your mouth closed and relax your facial muscles so you look like your everyday self.
Taking a few test shots allows you to check your framing before you settle on the final picture.
Glasses and Headwear Rules
The rules for glasses are unspecified by the authority[1][2]. If you wear prescription eyeglasses every day, you can keep them on as long as the frames do not hide your eyes and there is no glare on the lenses.
Headwear permissions are also unspecified by the authority[1][2]. If you wear head coverings for religious or medical reasons, make sure they do not cast shadows on your face or hide your hairline.
Your entire face from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead should remain completely visible. Checking these details helps you avoid common pitfalls when preparing your image.
Submission Methods and Registration
INEC registration captures the photo and fingerprints at a registration centre or through its registration workflow[1][2]. Existing voters completing online revalidation may provide a photo digitally[1][2]. The card itself is physical, with a limited digital PVC pilot[1][2].
Follow INEC’s instructions for your registration or revalidation. The tool above can be used to prepare a photo for personal records.
Knowing whether you need a printed copy or a digital upload saves you time on registration day.
Children and Age Exceptions
Voter registration is for eligible voters, so infant photo rules do not apply[1][2].
INEC’s cited guidance does not give special photo rules for infants[1][2].
Always check the official website for the latest age requirements and eligibility rules before you start your application.