Equatorial Guinean Residence Permit Photo Requirements
Applying for a residence permit in Equatorial Guinea requires you to submit specific printed photographs with your paperwork. This guide explains what you need to know to prepare your photos correctly.
Official Size and Guidelines
The Ministry of National Security’s Directorate General of Foreigners and Borders handles residence permits[1]. The regulation requires recent carnet-size photos, but does not give their dimensions[1]. A 35×45 mm crop is a common practical size, not a confirmed requirement. Check the required dimensions with the issuing office.
The regulations state that applicants must provide recent carnet-size photos[1]. Specifically, you need to prepare three identical physical copies of your photograph for both initial permit issuance and subsequent renewals[1].
Background and Color Requirements
The regulation requires a white background[1]. Use a plain white wall or a smooth white sheet.
Lighting plays a major role in creating a clean white backdrop. Face a large window during daylight hours so natural light illuminates your face and the background evenly. Avoid standing too close to the wall, which can cast unwanted dark shadows behind your head. Check your preview image carefully to make sure the background appears bright, uniform, and free of gray spots or discoloration.
Glasses, Headwear and Expressions
Official guidelines from the government leave certain appearance rules unspecified. For instance, the rules do not state clear requirements regarding whether you can wear glasses in your residence permit photograph[1]. To reduce the risk of your photo being refused due to frame glare or lens reflections, it is usually best to take your glasses off.
The regulation does not specify headwear or expression rules[1]. Ask the issuing office whether it has additional photo instructions.
Rules for Children and Infants
Families moving to or living in Equatorial Guinea often need to submit documents for children as well as adults. However, the official rules state no separate infant photo rules for residence permits[1].
No separate infant photo rules are stated in the reviewed regulation[1]. Check with the issuing office for instructions for a child’s application.
Taking Your Photo at Home
If you take a photo at home, use a stable camera position and even lighting. The regulation does not specify camera distance or equipment.
It is best to ask a friend or family member to take the photo rather than trying to take a selfie, as holding a phone at arm's length changes your natural proportions. Keep your shoulders square and look directly into the lens. Once you capture a clear image, you can use the tool above to crop your photo to the 35 by 45 millimeter size and arrange it onto a printable template.
Printing and Submitting Your Photos
The regulation requires three recent carnet-size photos[1]. It does not specify a print template or print-shop method. Confirm the photo dimensions with the issuing office before printing.
Submit the three recent photos with the other documents required by the Directorate General of Foreigners and Borders[1]. Check the application instructions for any print specifications.
Frequently asked questions
What size photo do I need for an Equatorial Guinean residence permit?
The authority publishes no single official size, but 35 by 45 millimeters is the size most often asked for and used by studios[1].
How many photos must I submit?
You must provide three recent carnet-size photos for both initial issuance and renewal applications[1].
What color background is required?
The regulation requires a white background[1].
Are glasses permitted in the photo?
Glasses are unspecified in the official regulations, but removing them helps prevent potential issues with glare or reflections[1].
Where do I submit my residence permit application?
Applications are handled by the Ministry of National Security, Directorate General of Foreigners and Borders[1].