Preparing Your Djibouti Residence Permit Photo
The law establishes the carte de séjour but does not give photo specifications. Check with the issuing office about its photo requirements before applying.
Official Size and Guidelines
The law does not give a photo size or say whether applicants supply a photo[1]. The 35×45 mm (1.38×1.77 in) crop is a common practice estimate, not an official specification. Ask the issuing office what it requires before printing.
The law establishes the residence permit for foreign visitors, students, workers, and eligible family members, but does not state specific photo dimensions in the official text[1]. Because official specifications can vary by local office, checking ahead saves you time and prevents application delays.
Understanding Head Height and Positioning
The official text does not set a specific rule for head height in your residence permit photo[1]. When you take your picture, keep your head centered and leave a sensible amount of space around your face and shoulders so that the framing looks balanced.
The tool above can help you crop your image to the correct 35×45 mm proportions easily. Position the camera at your eye level and keep the distance around one to one and a half meters away from your face for a clear portrait.
Background and Lighting Recommendations
The official guidelines do not set a background colour or specific lighting rule for your residence permit photo[1]. To get a clear and clean picture, face a bright window with natural daylight or use balanced soft indoor lighting that illuminates your whole face evenly without harsh glares.
Avoid heavy shadows on your face or on the wall behind you. Ask someone else to take the picture instead of holding the camera yourself, because a self-taken photo often distorts your facial features and angle.
Rules for Glasses, Expression, and Head Coverings
The official regulations do not specify requirements for glasses, facial expressions, or head coverings[1]. However, you should keep your face clearly visible and maintain a neutral, natural look to avoid any questions from office staff during your visit.
If you wear prescription glasses, make sure the lenses do not reflect light from windows or lamps. Your eyes must remain fully visible and open so that the issuing officer can identify you without trouble.
Printing and Submission Instructions
The law does not state whether a photo must be printed or submitted digitally[1]. Ask the issuing office how it accepts photos.
Take this saved sheet to a local photo kiosk and print it out as an ordinary physical photograph. Cut the printed picture carefully to the 35×45 mm size using clean scissors before you attach it to your application paperwork.
Guidelines for Children and Dependents
Residence cards apply to foreign visitors, students, workers, and eligible family members[1]. The official rules do not list separate photo standards for infants or young children applying for their own permits.
If you are preparing a permit photo for a child, follow the same general framing, lighting, and size guidelines used for adults. Keep the child's face facing forward with eyes open and mouth closed for the best result.
Working with Issuing Authorities
The law says the carte de séjour is issued by the Direction de l’Immigration[1]. Ask that office about its photo requirements.
If an official requests a specific format that differs from standard practices, you should follow their direct instructions. Preparing your photo with the tool above helps you stay organized and ready for your appointment.
Frequently asked questions
What is the official size for a Djibouti residence permit photo?
The authority publishes no single official size, but 35×45 mm (1.38×1.77 in) is the size most often asked for[1].
Does the law set a specific head height requirement?
No, the official rules do not set a head height requirement for this document[1].
Do I need a printed photo or a digital upload file?
The law does not specify whether the photo should be printed or digital[1].
Are glasses permitted in the application photo?
The official text does not specify rules for glasses, but your eyes must remain clearly visible[1].
Which organisation issues the residence permit?
The Police de l'Immigration, Ministère de l'Intérieur issues the carte de séjour[1].