Kenya

Kenya permanent residence application photo (35×45 mm)

Required size: 35×45 mm (1.38×1.77 in). Your photo is processed on your device.

The issuing authority doesn't publish one photo size for this document, so the studio uses the size most often asked for. Check the current rules with the authority or organisation that issues it before you apply.

No photo selected

Upload a portrait from your phone or take one with your camera.

No photo selected yet.

Photo requirements

  • Size: 35×45 mm (1.38×1.77 in)
  • Head size: not set by the authority
  • Background: White
  • Privacy: Processed on your device; the photo is not uploaded

Background

Put an accepted colour behind you. This happens on your device.

Download or print

Download a single photo, or a sheet with several copies to print at a photo kiosk.

💡 Printing tip

Save the sheet to your phone or a USB drive and order it at a photo kiosk as a standard 4×6-inch print.

Choose an ordinary photo print, not the passport photo service.

Official specification

Official namePermanent Residence
How you hand it inPrinted photo or digital upload
Photo size35×45 mm (1.38×1.77 in)
Head height (chin to top of head)Not set by the authority
BackgroundWhite
GlassesTake them off, unless you can’t for medical reasons
Head coveringOnly for religious or medical reasons, with the face fully visible
ExpressionNeutral, mouth closed, eyes open

Kenya Permanent Residence Application Photo Guide

The official Category B pages request passport-size photos but do not give exact dimensions[1][2]. This guide explains the listed photo requirements and the practical crop used here.

Official Size and Requirements

The cited Category B information lists passport-size photos but does not give exact dimensions[1][2]. This guide uses 35 × 45 mm (1.38 × 1.77 in) as a practical crop. The source does not set a head-height measurement[1][2].

Background and Submission Rules

The Category B application requires two passport-size photos, and a soft copy is also required during the application[2]. The source does not specify a background color or exact photo dimensions[2].

Rules for Children

The Category B page lists two recent passport-size photos for a child of a work-permit holder[2]. It does not give separate photo specifications for children.

Taking Your Photo at Home

Taking your photo at home is simple if you follow a few basic steps. Stand facing a bright window so natural light illuminates your face evenly without creating harsh shadows across your features. Ask a friend or family member to take the picture rather than attempting a selfie, which can distort your facial proportions. Keep the camera lens at your exact eye level, positioned about one to one and a half meters away from your face.

Preparing Your Photo

Preparing your photo requires careful attention to detail before you finalize your application. Stand against a plain, neutral wall so nothing distracts from your face and shoulders. Check that your eyes are open, looking directly at the camera lens, and that your hair does not cast shadows over your face. If you wear prescription glasses, make sure the frames do not obscure your eyes and that there is no glare hiding your pupils.

Common Reasons Photos Are Refused

Common reasons photos are refused include poor lighting, blurry focus, and incorrect framing. If your photo is too dark, washed out, or overexposed, the immigration office may reject it immediately. Make sure the image is recent and accurately reflects your current appearance without heavy filters. Always remember that the authority makes the final decision on photo acceptance, so verifying your setup beforehand saves you time and effort.

Frequently asked questions

What size do I need for a Kenya permanent residence photo?

The sources request passport-size photos but do not specify dimensions[1][2]. This guide uses 35 × 45 mm (1.38 × 1.77 in) as a practical crop, not an official size.

Do I need printed or digital photos?

You must provide two recent passport-size photos, and the online application also requires a soft copy[1][2].

Are there special photo rules for children?

Permanent-residence applications for children require recent passport-size photos, but the authority publishes no separate photo rules for them[1][2].

Does the authority set a specific background color?

The sources request passport-size photos but do not specify a background color or exact dimensions[1][2].

Can I take the photo myself?

You can take the photo at home using a camera or phone, but you should have someone else take it and check your local submission guidelines.