Panamanian residence permit photo (26×32 mm)

Official Size and Dimensions

The Servicio Nacional de Migración publishes photo requirements by permit category. Some procedures request carnet-size photos, but the cited sources do not set a single official dimension. A 26 by 32 millimeter (1.02 by 1.26 inch) crop is a practical size used here, not an official dimension^[1][2].

Print and Submission Rules

Photo requirements vary by permit category. Some procedures require printed photos, and the student-residence decree requires three carnet-size photos^[1][2]. Check the instructions for your category to confirm the required number and submission method.

Applicants supply printed photos, and the number varies by permit category, with examples including two or three^[1][2]. Check your permit category's instructions for the required number of photos^[1].

Clothing, Glasses, and Headwear Rules

The Servicio Nacional de Migración FAQ lists sleeveless and low-cut clothing, dark glasses, and hats not registered in RUEX among items excluded for certain procedures^[3]. Check the instructions for your permit category before applying^[1].

How to Take Your Photo at Home

You can set up a simple space at home to take your picture before you format it for printing. Stand facing a bright window to get soft, even lighting across your face without harsh shadows. Avoid using a flash, as it can cause bright spots or red eyes. Pick a plain, neutral background, like a clean wall, so nothing distracts from your face. Ask a friend or family member to take the photo while you keep the camera steady at eye level, about one to one and a half meters away from your face. Look straight at the lens with a neutral expression and your mouth closed. You can use the tool above to crop your picture to the common 26 by 32 millimeter size and arrange it cleanly on a standard sheet. Taking clear test shots helps you achieve the right expression and framing before you finalize the sheet.

Printing Your Photos at a Kiosk

If your permit category requires printed photos, follow its instructions for preparing and submitting them^[1]. Save your cropped photo file onto a USB drive or your phone, then bring it to a local print shop or photo kiosk. Print your pictures on a standard sheet of photo paper with a matte or glossy finish, depending on what looks best. Check the printed physical dimensions with a ruler before you cut them out. Make sure the final cut matches the 26 by 32 millimeter size^[1][3][2]. Use clean scissors or a paper cutter to make straight edges.

Photos for Minors and Dependents

Photo requirements for minors depend on the relevant permit category. The cited materials do not give separate infant dimensions^[1][3][2]. Residence applications for minors may require photos under the relevant permit category^[1][3][2]. Check the category instructions for the required number and format. If you are taking a photo of a baby or toddler, lay them on a plain white or light-colored sheet on the floor and take the picture from directly above. Make sure the child's eyes are open and their face is fully visible without any hands or toys in the frame.

Common Reasons Photos Are Refused

The FAQ lists restrictions on sleeveless and low-cut clothing, dark glasses, and hats unless headwear is registered in RUEX^[3]. Check your permit category's instructions for its photo requirements^[1][3]. Other common mistakes include tilting your head, wearing dark clothes that blend into the background, or having shadows on your face. Make sure your image is sharp, clear, and unblurred before you print it out.