Angolan Resident Card Photo Requirements and Guide
Angola’s resident card application requires two recent color pass-style photos measuring 40×50 mm, with a white background[1].
Official Size and Submission Rules
For an initial or renewal resident card, SIAC lists two recent color pass-style photos measuring 4×5 cm (40×50 mm), with a white background[1].
The authority does not set a specific head height rule for this document[1]. You must supply printed photos for your application[1].
Crop the image to 40×50 mm.
Background and Lighting
Your photo must feature a plain white background[1]. Make sure there are no shadows, patterns, or objects behind you.
Good lighting helps show your true skin tone and facial features clearly. Face a bright window or use soft indoor lights so your face is evenly lit without harsh shadows.
If you use a wall as a backdrop, step a little bit away from it so your shadow does not fall onto the white surface behind you.
Expression, Glasses, and Head Coverings
The official source does not specify strict rules for glasses or headwear on the resident card photo[1]. It is safest to keep your face fully uncovered and free from tinted lenses so officials can identify you without question.
Keep your head straight and look directly into the camera lens with a natural expression.
Rules for Children and Infants
The official source provides no separate photo rules for children or infants[1]. If you are submitting a photo for a young family member, follow the same basic size and white background requirements as adult submissions.
For babies, place them on a plain white sheet or blanket on the floor and take the picture from directly above. Keep the baby calm and make sure their face and eyes are fully visible.
Taking Your Photo at Home
Stand or sit about one to one and a half meters away from the camera. Ask someone else to take the picture for you, or set the camera on a steady surface at your eye level.
Make sure your shoulders and upper chest are visible within the 40 by 50 mm frame. Avoid using digital filters or editing your facial features.
Printing Your Photos for the Application
Since the SME requires printed photos, you can arrange your cropped 40 by 50 mm image onto a standard 4 by 6 inch photo sheet[1]. Take this digital sheet to any local photo kiosk or print shop that handles ordinary 4 by 6 prints.
Cut the printed photos carefully along the edges before you bring them to your appointment. Use a sharp pair of scissors or a paper cutter to keep the lines straight.
Frequently asked questions
What size is the photo for an Angolan resident card?
The official size is 40 by 50 mm, or 1.57 by 1.97 inches[1].
What background color do I need?
You need a white background for your pass-style photos[1].
How many photos do I need to submit?
You must provide two recent color photos for an initial or renewal resident card[1].
Are digital uploads accepted?
The SME requires physical printed photos for the application process[1].
Who issues the resident card in Angola?
The Cartão de Residente is issued by the Serviço de Migração e Estrangeiros (SME)[1].