Kazakhstan foreign resident permit photo (35×45 mm)

Official Size and Dimensions

For a paper form, the rules specify a 35 by 45 millimetre photo^[1].

The common identity-document photo standard gives a head height of 32–36 millimetres, from the chin to the crown^[2].

Keep your head centered and look directly at the camera lens.

When you measure your printed photo with a small ruler, check that the total height matches 45 millimetres and the width matches 35 millimetres. The distance from your chin to the top of your head must fit inside the 32 to 36 millimetre range^[2].

Background and Lighting Standards

The background of your photo must follow specific official instructions. The common Kazakhstan identity-document photo standard calls for a single-colour light background and recommends neutral grey; blue is discouraged^[2].

Avoid patterned walls, textured backdrops, or dark shades. Position yourself a short distance in front of the background to prevent harsh shadows from appearing behind your head.

Use soft, even lighting across your face. Face a large window or use two balanced light sources to remove shadows under your nose and chin.

Facial Expression and Appearance

You must maintain a neutral expression with your mouth closed when the photo is taken^[2]. Do not smile, frown, or open your mouth.

Keep your eyes wide open and look straight into the camera. Your hair should not cover your eyes or face.

Glasses are allowed under conditional rules^[2]. If you wear prescription glasses, make sure the frames do not hide your eyes and the lenses produce no glare from the lights.

Headwear is permitted for religious or medical reasons only^[2]. Even in those cases, your full face from your chin to the top of your forehead, along with the edges of your face, must remain clearly visible.

Taking the Photo at Home

You can take a practice picture at home against a plain, light wall.

Ask someone to take the picture with a camera or phone. Keep the camera at eye level.

Use natural daylight coming from a window directly in front of you. Stand close to the window so your face receives bright, even illumination without heavy side shadows.

Age Limits and Document Rules

The rules say a residence permit is issued to foreign nationals permanently residing in Kazakhstan from age 16^[1].

The identity-document rules specify an age of 16 and over for the residence permit^[1].

Submission and Printing Methods

Two printed photos are specified for a paper form under the issuance rules, while online guidance also describes attaching a digital photo file^[1][3].

If you need physical copies for a paper submission, you can format your image to print on an ordinary 4 by 6 inch sheet at a local photo kiosk. You can use the tool above to crop your image to the correct dimensions and arrange it on a printable sheet quickly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Keep your face pointed forward and avoid tilting your head. The cited guidance does not identify common reasons for photo rejection.

Check that your mouth is fully closed and you are not showing your teeth. A slight smile or smirk often counts as a non-neutral expression.

Look out for strong flash reflections on your glasses lenses. If you see light spots covering your eyes, take your glasses off or adjust your indoor lamps.

Authority Capture and Using the Tool

The rules specify two printed photos for a paper-form application^[1].

The tool above can still help you rehearse, check your photo layout, or prepare a digital copy for personal records or other uses, even though the issuing office makes the final decision on acceptance.