Aruban Residence Permit Photo Requirements and Tips
Getting your Aruban residence permit requires a correct photo that meets official standards. Follow this guide to prepare your picture properly.
Official Size and Format
The Department for the Integration, Management and Admission of Foreign Nationals (DIMAS) in Aruba sets specific rules for your residence permit photo[1]. You need to submit one recent color photo for your application[1]. The official size of the photo is 35 by 45 millimeters, which is about 1.38 by 1.77 inches[1].
Submit one recent color photo as a JPEG file[1]. The source does not specify an online portal or further file-upload requirements.
Background and Lighting
When you take your photo, you need to pay close attention to your background and lighting conditions. The DIMAS document specifies a recent color passport photo but does not state a background color[1].
Since the authority does not set a specific background color, a plain light or white background is usually a safe choice for clarity and contrast. Try to use soft, even lighting across your face to avoid heavy shadows under your chin or nose. Stand facing a window with natural light or use two equal lamps to keep your face evenly lit from both sides.
Preparing Your Photo with the Tool Above
Taking your photo at home is simple when you use the right practical approach. Stand about one to two meters away from the camera and keep the lens at your exact eye level. Ask a friend or family member to take the picture instead of holding the camera yourself to avoid awkward arm angles.
You can use the tool above to crop your image to the correct 35 by 45 millimeter size right in your browser. Your photo never leaves your device when you use this tool, keeping your personal files private and secure.
Glasses and Head Coverings
The DIMAS requirements do not specify rules for glasses or headwear[1].
Even though the rules do not explicitly forbid glasses or head coverings, it is often best to remove them to avoid any potential questions from the examining office. If you choose to wear your everyday prescription glasses, make sure there is no flash glare on the lenses and your eyes remain fully visible.
Facial Expression and Head Height
Your facial expression and the positioning of your head play a large part in getting a clear picture. The authority does not set a specific rule for neutral expressions or closed mouths in the provided guidelines[1]. Similarly, the head height from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head is not set by the authority[1].
Despite these missing specific measurements, centering your head and looking directly at the camera lens is always a good practice. Keep your head straight, relax your shoulders, and avoid tilting your head up, down, or to either side.
Rules for Children and Infants
The DIMAS requirements do not state separate photo rules for infants[1].
If you are photographing a baby or small child, lay them flat on a plain light-colored blanket or support them gently against a neutral wall. Keep the camera directly above them and wait patiently until their eyes are open and looking toward the lens. You can still use the tool above to crop their pictures to the required dimensions easily.
Submitting Your Digital File
Submit one recent color photo as a JPEG file with your application[1].
Save your cropped image as a JPEG file on your computer or mobile device storage. Check the file properties to confirm it is ready to upload into the online application portal. Follow the instructions on the official DIMAS website to attach your photo correctly to your application form.
Frequently asked questions
What is the official photo size for an Aruban residence permit?
The official size is 35 by 45 millimeters (1.38 by 1.77 inches)[1].
What color should the background be?
The DIMAS document specifies a recent color passport photo but does not state a background color[1].
Can I submit a digital photo?
Yes, DIMAS requires the photo as a digital file in JPEG format[1].
Are glasses allowed in the photo?
The rules on glasses are unspecified by the authority[1], but it is safer to remove them to prevent glare.
Is there a specific head height requirement?
The head height is not set by the authority[1].