Sri Lanka

Sri Lankan passport photo (35×45 mm)

Required size: 35×45 mm (1.38×1.77 in). Your photo is processed on your device.

The issuing authority doesn't publish one photo size for this document, so the studio uses the size most often asked for. Check the current rules with the authority or organisation that issues it before you apply.

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Upload a portrait from your phone or take one with your camera.

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Photo requirements

  • Size: 35×45 mm (1.38×1.77 in)
  • Head size: not set by the authority
  • Background: White
  • Privacy: Processed on your device; the photo is not uploaded

Background

Put an accepted colour behind you. This happens on your device.

Download or print

Download a single photo, or a sheet with several copies to print at a photo kiosk.

💡 Printing tip

Save the sheet to your phone or a USB drive and order it at a photo kiosk as a standard 4×6-inch print.

Choose an ordinary photo print, not the passport photo service.

Official specification

Official nameSri Lankan passport photo
How you hand it inDigital upload
Photo size35×45 mm (1.38×1.77 in)
Head height (chin to top of head)Not set by the authority
BackgroundWhite
GlassesTake them off, unless you can’t for medical reasons
Head coveringOnly for religious or medical reasons, with the face fully visible
ExpressionNeutral, mouth closed, eyes open

Sri Lankan Passport Photo Guide and Requirements

Learn how Sri Lankan passport photos are submitted for local applications and what the Department’s published instructions say about photo size.

Understanding Sri Lankan Passport Photo Rules

For local passport applications, applicants get a digital photo from an authorized studio. The studio sends it to the Department and gives the applicant an acknowledgement note[1][2].

Official Size and Authority Guidelines

The Department’s cited passport instructions do not specify a photo size[1][2]. This page uses 35×45 mm (about 1.38×1.77 in), a size often requested at studios; it is not an official passport-photo size.

The cited passport information does not set a head-height measurement or specify a photo background colour[1][2].

Digital Submission and Local Applications

Printed photos are not accepted for local passport applications[1][2]. Applicants use an authorized studio, which sends the digital photo to the Department[1][2].

Your photo must have been taken within the last six months[1][2]. Check the date it was taken before applying.

Rules for Children and Infants

For local applications, children and infants also submit a digital photo through a Department-authorized studio[1][2]. The cited instructions do not give separate photo rules for children.

You can use the tool to practice framing before visiting an authorized studio.

Overseas Applications and Special Cases

Applicants overseas may apply through diplomatic missions without submitting a digital photo[1][2]. Ask the relevant mission how to submit your application.

Using the Tool at Home

For local passport applications, the official photo must come through an authorized studio[1][2]. You can use the tool to prepare a photo for personal use and practice your framing before heading out.

Taking the Photo at Home

For practice, use a simple background and soft light, such as light from a large window.

For a practice photo, place the camera or phone at eye level and ask someone to take the picture.

Checking Your Practice Photos

The 35×45 mm size shown here is a studio convention, not an official passport-photo size.

Common Reasons Photos Are Refused

The Department says the passport photo must have been taken within the last six months[1][2]. Make sure your studio photo meets this time limit.

The cited instructions do not list other common photo-rejection reasons. Keep the studio acknowledgement note for your records[1][2].

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a printed photo for my local Sri Lankan passport?

No. Printed photos are not accepted for local passport applications. Use an authorized studio to submit your digital photo[1][2].

How old can my passport photo be?

Your photo must have been taken within the last six months[1][2].

What is the official photo size for a Sri Lankan passport?

The cited passport instructions do not specify a photo size[1][2]. This page uses 35×45 mm (about 1.38×1.77 inches), a size often requested at studios; it is not an official passport-photo size.

Do children need a separate photo for their passport?

Yes. All passport applicants, including children, submit a digital photograph through a Department-authorized photo studio[1][2].

How do overseas applicants submit their photos?

Applicants overseas may apply through diplomatic missions without submitting a digital photo[1][2].

Can I take my final passport photo at home?

For local applications, you cannot submit a home photo because the official image must come from a Department-authorized studio[1][2]. However, you can use online tools to practice your framing.