San Marino Work or Study Stay Permit Photo Guide
Get the right photo size for your San Marino stay permit application with this clear guide and handy tool.
Official Size and Requirements
The Gendarmeria’s Ufficio Stranieri handles stay permits[1]. The cited sources require ICAO-format photos for some applications, but do not give dimensions[1][2]. A 35 × 45 mm crop (about 1.38 × 1.77 inches) is a common practice size, not an official requirement.
For multiple stay-permit applications, the consolidated rules require four ICAO-format photos[2]. The cited sources do not specify their dimensions.
The cited sources do not give a single official photo size. Ask the Ufficio Stranieri which dimensions to use for your application.
Head Height and Framing Rules
The cited sources do not specify head height or other portrait details[1][2].
Keep the camera at eye level, roughly one to one and a half meters away from you, to avoid any unusual distortion of your facial features.
When you frame your picture, position the camera straight ahead of your face. Do not tilt the camera up or down. Keep your shoulders square to the lens. Since the official rules do not list a specific head height measurement, keeping your head centered in the frame is a safe approach.
Background and Lighting Guidelines
The cited documents require ICAO-format photos but do not specify a background color[1][2].
For a clear picture, face a bright window for even light. Ask someone to take the picture if you can.
Bright and even lighting helps your features stand out clearly without harsh shadows under your chin or nose. Avoid using direct flash if it creates a shiny spot on your forehead. A plain, neutral wall works well behind you when the rules do not mention a specific color.
Expression, Eyes, Glasses, and Head Coverings
The cited documents do not specify rules for glasses, headwear, or facial expression[1][2].
The cited documents do not specify whether glasses or head coverings are allowed[1][2]. Check with the Ufficio Stranieri if you need guidance.
Because the official sources leave these details unspecified, it is best to keep your look simple and natural. Keep your mouth closed and maintain a neutral expression if possible. If you wear daily glasses, you might want to take them off to prevent any glare on the lenses.
Taking the Photo at Home
Taking your own picture lets you check the results before you spend money on prints. Set your phone or camera on a stable shelf or tripod so the image does not blur. Stand about one meter away from the lens and look straight ahead.
Check the digital file on a computer screen to verify that your face is sharp and clear. Make sure the lighting is bright on both sides of your face.
Preparing Your Digital Photo
Taking your own photo gives you control over the process before you print it. Set up your camera or phone on a stable surface or have someone hold it steady. Position yourself against your plain background with good lighting.
The sources do not specify photo dimensions; 35 × 45 mm is a common crop size, not an official measurement[1][2].
Printing and Submission at a Kiosk
The cited rules require ICAO-format photos for multiple applications[2]. They do not specify whether the photos must be printed or submitted digitally, or give exact dimensions.
If you choose to print photos, ask the Ufficio Stranieri about the required format and dimensions.
You can place your cropped 35 × 45 mm image onto a standard 4 by 6-inch template before printing at a local photo kiosk. This lets you print multiple copies on a single sheet of paper, which you can cut out carefully with scissors or a paper cutter.
Common Reasons for Refusal
The cited sources do not list photo rejection reasons or portrait-quality rules[1][2].
The consolidated rules require four ICAO-format photos for multiple stay-permit applications[2]. They do not specify dimensions or other portrait details.
The cited sources do not list photo-rejection reasons or portrait-quality rules[1][2].
Frequently asked questions
What size is required for a San Marino stay permit photo?
How many photos do I need to submit?
The official consolidated rules require four ICAO-format photos for multiple stay permit applications[2].