Kenya Dependant Pass Photo Guide
Preparing your Kenya dependant pass application takes careful attention to detail. This guide helps you get your printed photos ready correctly.
Understanding the Official Size
The Directorate of Immigration Services, Government of Kenya issues the Dependant’s Pass for eligible foreign dependants of Kenyan citizens, permit holders, permanent residents, or exempt persons[1]. The authority publishes no single official size, so the studio uses the size most often asked for[1].
The source gives no exact dimensions[1]. This article uses 35 × 45 mm (1.38 × 1.77 in) as a practical crop; confirm the size with the issuing office before printing.
Submission and Print Requirements
The application requires two current colored passport-size photos of the dependant[1]. The source does not specify whether they must be physical prints or digital files.
You can easily prepare your image files at home before heading out to print them. You can use the tool above to crop your photo to the correct dimensions and format it properly for printing.
Background and Lighting Guidelines
The authority requires current colored passport-size photos and publishes no background color or dimensions[1]. To keep your photo clear and professional, try to stand in front of a plain, light-colored background.
Good lighting is important for a clear picture. Face a window or use soft, even lighting to avoid heavy shadows on your face or behind your head.
Head Height and Positioning
The authority sets no specific head height for this photo[1]. Center your head and shoulders in the frame so that your entire face is clearly visible to the reviewer.
Keep the camera at your eye level and stand about one to one and a half meters away from the lens. Ask a friend or family member to take the picture for you to keep the angle straight and steady.
Glasses, Expression, and Headwear
The official source does not specify rules for glasses, headwear, or facial expressions[1]. For a clear photo, keep your face visible and look toward the camera.
If you wear prescription glasses, check the photo carefully for glare on the lenses. Any flash reflection that hides your eyes can cause the authorities to refuse the photo.
Rules for Children and Infants
If you are submitting an application for a child or an infant, note that no separate infant photo rules are published by the authority[1]. You should follow the same general standards used for adult applicants.
Lay the infant on a plain white or light-colored sheet if they cannot sit up on their own. Stand directly above the child to take the photo from above while keeping their face fully uncovered.
Printing at a Local Kiosk
Once your photo is cropped to 35 by 45 millimeters, you need to arrange it for physical printing. You can place your cropped photo onto a standard 4 by 6-inch photo template.
Take this standard image file to a local photo printing kiosk or shop. Print it as an ordinary 4 by 6-inch photo, then cut out the individual pictures carefully with scissors.
Frequently asked questions
What size is required for a Kenya dependant pass photo?
The authority publishes no single official size, but the studio uses 35 by 45 millimeters (1.38 by 1.77 inches) as the size most often asked for[1]. Always confirm this with the issuing office.
How many photos do I need to submit?
The dependant provides two current colored passport-size photos[1].
Are digital photo submissions accepted?
The application requires physical printed photos[1]. You must print your photos on paper to submit them with your paperwork.
Are there special rules for baby photos?
No separate infant photo rules are published by the authority[1].
What background color should I use?
The authority requires current colored passport-size photos and publishes no background color or dimensions[1]. A plain, neutral background works best.