Preparing Your Somali Passport Photo
Getting a passport from Somalia requires specific steps, including providing two recent passport photos and attending biometric enrollment[1][2]. The tool above can help you prepare your photo for printing.
Official Size and Requirements
The government service page asks for two passport photos[1]. The official pages reviewed do not specify their dimensions. The 35×45 mm crop shown here is a practical suggestion, not a published Somali specification. Confirm the required size with the issuing office before applying.
The official pages reviewed do not specify photo dimensions. Confirm the required size with the issuing office before printing.
Background and Lighting Details
The official pages reviewed do not specify a background color or photo dimensions[1][2]. For a practice photo, use even lighting and avoid strong shadows.
For a practice photo, use even lighting and avoid harsh shadows or reflections.
Head Height and Framing Rules
The official pages reviewed do not give a head-height measurement[1][2]. For a practice photo, center your head in the frame and keep the camera at eye level.
Position the camera carefully to avoid awkward angles that distort your facial features. Look directly into the camera lens with a neutral expression if possible. Keep your shoulders back and relax your facial muscles. Double check that your full head, including your hair and chin, is completely inside the frame without getting cut off at the edges.
Biometric Enrollment and Photos
The government service page asks for two passport photos[1]. ICA’s services page also lists two recent passport photographs among passport requirements[2]. The available pages reviewed do not specify their dimensions. Confirm the required format with the issuing office.
The sources listed for this article do not establish that passport applicants have fingerprints and a digital facial image captured at the office. Confirm the current submission process and photo format with ICA.
Taking Your Photo at Home Step by Step
Find a quiet room with good lighting and a plain wall behind you. Ask a friend or family member to take the picture using a digital camera or smartphone. Keep your shoulders square and look straight into the camera lens. Take a few different shots so you have options to choose from when you review them. Check that your face is fully visible and clearly lit.
Review your practice photo for blur, shadows, or closed eyes. Select a clear image before using the tool above.
Printing and Preparing Your Sheet
The government service page asks for two passport photos[1]. It does not state their dimensions or print format. Confirm the requirements with the issuing office before preparing or printing photos.
If the issuing office confirms that printed photos are required, check that they are printed at the requested size.
Common Reasons Photos Are Refused
The official pages reviewed do not list reasons a passport photo may be rejected or specify rules for glasses. The government service page asks for two passport photos[1]; ask ICA what photo quality and format it requires.
The official pages reviewed do not specify rules for hats or headwear. Confirm any photo requirements with the issuing office before submitting your application.
Frequently asked questions
What is the official size for a Somali passport photo?
Do I need to submit physical printed photos?
Does the government take my photo too?
Yes, applicants also attend biometric enrollment where the Immigration and Citizenship Agency captures a digital photograph[2].
Are there special photo rules for infants or children?
No separate child or infant photo rules were found in the official instructions reviewed[1].
Can I use this website to prepare my photo?
You can use the tool above to crop your photo to the common thirty-five by forty-five millimeter size and arrange it on a printable sheet[1].