Kazakhstan Passport Photo Requirements
Prepare your Kazakhstan passport photo correctly to meet the official standards set by the authorities. Follow these clear rules to help your application get processed properly.
Official Size and Head Dimensions
The photo size is 35×45 mm, or about 1.38×1.77 inches[1]. Head height must be 32–36 mm, measured from the chin to the crown[1].
Check the size and framing against the photo standard before submitting your photo[1].
Background and Lighting Rules
Use a single-colour, light background. Neutral grey is ideal, and blue is not recommended[1].
Use even lighting and avoid shadows in the photo[1].
Facial Expression, Glasses, and Head Coverings
Your facial expression must remain completely neutral, and your mouth must be closed during the photo capture[1][2]. Do not smile, frown, or open your mouth when the picture is snapped[1][2]. Glasses are allowed only under conditional rules, so taking them off is often the safest approach to prevent a rejection[1][2].
Photos should be taken without headwear unless it is not possible for religious or medical reasons[1]. Follow the photo standard’s requirements for a full-face image[1].
Digital Submissions and File Size Limits
The photo guidance sets technical requirements for online photo files[1].
The image resolution must be 413×531 pixels, and the file size must not exceed 30 KB[1]. Compressing your image correctly helps you stay under this maximum file size without losing the necessary clarity for digital review. Always verify your final file properties before uploading to prevent upload errors on the portal.
Taking the photo at home
You can take your passport picture at home using a digital camera or smartphone. Stand about one to two meters away from a plain light wall.
Ask a friend or family member to help you take the picture instead of holding the camera at arm's length to avoid distortion. Keep the camera lens directly at your eye level so your face appears balanced. Turn off your camera flash to avoid harsh shadows on the wall behind you and use soft, even natural light from a window facing your front.
Checking your photo
Before you finish, look closely at your picture on a computer screen rather than a tiny phone display. Check that your entire head and shoulders are clearly visible with enough space around the edges for cropping.
Make sure your eyes are open, wide, and looking straight ahead at the lens. Verify that your hair does not cast shadows on your face or cover your eyes and eyebrows.
Where Photos Are Normally Taken
The Migration Service Committee says photos for identity documents are taken at a public service centre and entered into the electronic form. For an online application, a photo file is attached[3].
The official passport replacement procedure specifically outlines a requirement for two printed photographs when filing on paper[2]. If you print your own sheet, you can arrange it to fit an ordinary 4×6-inch photo paper format for easy printing at a kiosk.
Rules for Children and Infants
Children under 16 can be issued passports[4]. The photo guidance includes allowances for children under 10 and under 6[1].
The supplied verified facts give a face height of 22–36 mm for children under 10 and 17–40 mm when the top of the head is hard to determine[1].
The guidance also gives children under six additional allowances for head position, expression, gaze, and centering[1].
Common Reasons Photos Are Refused
The photo guidance says the image should have even lighting and no shadows[1].
The photo guidance requires a neutral expression and closed mouth, and limits headwear to religious or medical exceptions[1].
Frequently asked questions
What is the official size of a Kazakhstan passport photo?
Can I wear glasses in my passport photo?
What are the digital file limits for online submission?
The image resolution must be 413×531 pixels, and the file size must not exceed 30 KB[1].
What background color should I use?
You must use a single-colour, light background where neutral grey is ideal, and blue is discouraged[1].
Are there special photo rules for infants and young children?
Yes, children under ten have adjusted face height rules, and children under six receive extra allowances for head position and gaze[1].
Can I take my passport photo at home?
Yes, you can take the picture at home against a plain light wall using even natural lighting, provided it meets all official dimension and expression rules.