South Korean Residence Card Photo Requirements and Size Guide
Preparing a photo for your South Korean residence card or permanent resident card requires specific dimensions and formatting. Follow these official rules to make your application go well.
Official Size and Head Dimensions
For a Residence Card application, submit one photo measuring 35 by 45 mm[1][2]. The cited sources also describe photo requirements for other residence-card categories[1].
Your head height, measured from the top of your head to your chin, must be 25 to 35 mm[1].
Background and Lighting Rules
The photo must have a white background or no background and no border[1].
The photo must be in focus and have no shadows on the face[1]. When taking the picture at home, stand a few feet away from a plain white wall to prevent shadows from falling behind you. Face a large window with soft daylight, or use two balanced lamps in front of you to eliminate dark spots under your nose or chin. Avoid colored walls or textured wallpaper.
Glasses and Head Coverings
Glasses are allowed conditionally[1].
Headwear is permitted only for religious or medical reasons[1].
Submission and Application Process
The Ministry of Justice lists one passport-style photo among the required documents for foreigner registration[2].
The photo size is 35 by 45 mm[1]. The source facts say applicants submit one photo at an immigration office.
How to Take Your Photo at Home
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Make sure the photo is in focus and has no shadows on your face[1]. Ask a helper to stand a few feet away to take the shot at your eye level. Do not use a hand-held selfie camera, because it distorts facial shapes and makes your nose appear larger than normal.
Printing Your Photo at a Kiosk
The photo must measure 35 by 45 mm[1][2].
Keep the printed photo at the required 35 by 45 mm size[1][2]. Print your image on standard glossy or matte photo paper using high print settings. Avoid cutting the picture too small or leaving jagged edges. If you use a retail photo kiosk, double check the final print dimensions with a ruler before you leave the store.
Common Reasons Photos Are Refused
The standard calls for a white background or no background, no border, and a face length of 25 to 35 mm[1].
The verified facts specify the size, head height, background, border, glasses, and headwear requirements[1].
Before You Go
Gather your passport, completed application paperwork, and your printed photo before you travel to the immigration office.
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Frequently asked questions
Can I wear glasses in my South Korean residence card photo?
Glasses are allowed conditionally[1].
What is the correct head height for the photo?
Your head height must measure between 25 and 35 millimeters from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head[1].
Do I need a digital upload or a printed photo?
Applicants submit one photo at an immigration office[2].
What background color is required?
The photo standard calls for a white background or no background, without a border[1].
Can I wear a head covering in the picture?
Head coverings are permitted only for religious or medical reasons[1].
Can I smile in my South Korean residence card photo?
The supplied photo standard does not specify expression or mouth-position rules[1].