Brunei Passport Photo Guide
Prepare your passport photos for Brunei by following official guidelines and cropping your images to the correct size.
Understanding Size Requirements
Applicants provide photos, which the Department scans and prints on the passport data page[1]. The official sources do not state a photo size. A 35 by 45 mm (1.38 by 1.77 in) crop is practical guidance, not an official requirement.
You should always check with your local issuing office or organisation before you print your pictures[2]. Using the tool above can help you format your image to this common 35 by 45 mm dimension quickly.
The official sources do not give exact photo dimensions or head measurements[2][1]. Leave enough space around your head and shoulders when cropping so they are not cut off.
Taking the photo at home
You can take your passport picture at home using a digital camera or a modern smartphone. Ask a friend or family member to take the picture for you instead of trying to take a selfie. Selfies often distort facial features because the camera is held too close to your face.
Stand about two meters away from the camera to avoid any distortion. Make sure the person taking the photo holds the camera at your exact eye level so your face points straight toward the lens.
Background and Lighting Setup
The background requirements depend on your application type and location. For applications abroad, the Department lists two passport-size photos with a white background[2]. Children under 5 applying within Brunei must also provide two passport-size photos on a white background[2].
To get good lighting at home, face a large window during daylight hours. Stand a short distance away from the wall behind you to prevent harsh shadows from forming in your picture. Turn off any overhead yellow lights to keep the lighting clean and even across your face.
Head Height and Facial Rules
The cited sources do not state a head-height measurement for passport photos. Keep your head straight and face the camera directly.
The cited sources do not specify rules for glasses or headwear. Check with the issuing office if you are unsure what is allowed[2].
The cited sources do not specify expression or mouth-position rules. Follow the mission's instructions if it provides guidance.
Rules for Children and Infants
Photographing young children requires extra patience. Separate requirements apply to children under 12[2].
If you have a child under 5 applying in Brunei, you must provide two passport-size photos on a white background[2]. Laying an infant on a plain white sheet on the floor is an easy way to get a clear overhead shot.
Make sure the child is looking toward the camera if possible, and keep toys, pacifiers, or adult hands completely out of the final frame.
Printing and Submitting Your Photos
Applicants bring photos, and the Department scans and prints the image on the passport data page[1]. Check the application instructions for your case to confirm the required format.
You can arrange your cropped 35 by 45 mm photo onto a standard 4 by 6-inch template. Print this sheet out at any local photo kiosk as an ordinary picture, then cut out the individual photos carefully with scissors.
Use a sharp pair of scissors or a paper trimmer to keep the edges straight and clean. Handle the printed pictures only by the outer edges to avoid smudging the ink.
Common Reasons for Refusal
The cited sources do not list photo-rejection reasons or specify image-quality standards for routine adult applications. Check the requirements with the issuing office before submitting a photo.
Check your printed photos carefully against all known guidelines before you submit your documents to the Department of Immigration and National Registration[2].
Common issues with home photos include poor lighting, blurry details, or shadows behind the head. Review your picture on a large screen before printing to catch these errors early.
Frequently asked questions
What size do I need for a Brunei passport photo?
Can I wear glasses in my photo?
Glasses rules are unspecified by the official sources[2], but removing them is recommended to prevent glare.
What background color is required?
For applications abroad and for children under 5 applying in Brunei, the Department lists a white background[2].
How do I submit the photos?
Applicants bring photos, and the Department scans and prints the image directly onto the passport data page[1]. Check the application instructions for your case to confirm the required format.
Are there special rules for children?
Yes, separate requirements apply to children under 12, and children under 5 applying in Brunei must provide two passport-size photos on a white background[2].
Can I use my phone to take the photo?
Yes, you can use a smartphone or digital camera at home as long as the lighting is bright and even, and someone else takes the picture for you to avoid distortion.