Kenya temporary permit photo (35×45 mm)

Understanding the Permit and Size Rules

The Directorate of Immigration Services issues the temporary permit for Kenyans traveling within the East African region^[1]. The page asks for passport-size photos but does not state exact dimensions^[1].

You will need to submit two passport-size photos in a printed format for your application^[1]. Because the exact size is not officially set by the government, you should always confirm the required dimensions with the issuing office or local organization before you print^[1].

The size most commonly used for this application is 35×45 mm, which translates to about 1.38×1.77 inches^[1]. Always double-check these specific details to avoid delays when you submit your physical paperwork to the immigration officials.

Background and Lighting Setup

The authority asks for two passport-size photos, with no stated background color or dimensions^[1]. Dimensions are a common passport-photo crop for practical use^[1].

The official page does not specify a background color^[1]. You can use a plain background to keep the photo clear.

Facing a window can give you soft, natural light without creating harsh dark spots on one side of your face.

Step-by-Step Home Photography

You can take your picture at home using a digital camera or a modern smartphone. Ask a friend or family member to take the picture instead of trying to take a selfie, because holding the camera yourself distorts your facial features.

Keep the camera lens at your exact eye level and stand about one to one and a half meters away from the person holding the camera. Look straight ahead into the lens with a relaxed posture.

Check that your entire head and your upper shoulders are fully visible in the frame, leaving enough space around your hair.

Cropping and Preparing Your Image

When you edit your photo, you need to match the common 35×45 mm size used for this permit^[1]. The head height is not set by the authority^[1], but you should still keep your head centered, upright, and facing forward.

You can use the tool above to crop your image to the correct 35×45 mm dimensions and place it onto a standard 4×6-inch sheet. This handy layout lets you print your final photos easily at any local photo kiosk or standard print shop.

Glasses, Headwear, and Children

The official rules leave glasses and headwear unspecified for this document^[1]. If you choose to wear glasses in your photo, make sure there is no flash glare on the lenses and that your eyes remain clearly visible to anyone reviewing the application.

Minors apply with a birth certificate, and no separate infant photo rules are published by the Kenyan immigration office^[1]. If you are taking a photo for a child, keep their face clearly visible and follow the same general lighting and framing steps outlined in this guide.

Printing Your Photos at a Kiosk

The Kenyan temporary permit application requires physical, printed photos rather than digital file uploads^[1]. After you arrange your cropped 35×45 mm images on a 4×6-inch template, save the resulting image file to your mobile phone or a portable USB drive.

Take that file to a local print shop or a retail photo kiosk that handles standard 4×6 snapshot prints. Cut out the two photos carefully along the straight edges using sharp scissors before you submit them with your official application forms.

Final Checklist Before Submission

Before you hand in your paperwork, check your printed photos to make sure they meet every practical requirement^[1]. Remember that the Directorate of Immigration Services requires two physical copies for your file^[1].

Inspect the pictures in good daylight to check for blurriness, shadows, or smudges on the glossy paper surface. If the prints look sharp, clear, and match the common 35×45 mm dimensions, you are ready to include them in your application package^[1].