Thai Residence Permit Photo Requirements and Size
For a Thai permanent residence application, the Immigration Bureau requires five 4 by 6 cm photos taken within the last six months[1]. Requirements can vary for other procedures.
Official Size and Dimensions
For a permanent residence application, the Immigration Bureau requires five 4 by 6 cm photos taken within the last six months[1]. This is 40 by 60 mm, or about 1.57 by 2.36 inches.
The permanent residence instructions do not accept Polaroid photos[1]. They do not specify a head-height measurement. Check which photo requirements apply to your residence-permit procedure.
When you measure your printed pictures with a ruler, the physical paper size must match the exact dimensions requested by the office. Keep in mind that trimming the edges carefully will help you avoid uneven borders.
Background Requirements
The Immigration Bureau requires a frontal half-length photo without a hat. The cited instructions do not specify a background color[1].
For a practice photo, use a plain background and even lighting. The cited instructions do not specify a background color[1].
If your home does not have a plain wall, you can hang a plain white bedsheet behind you. Make sure the sheet is smooth so folds and wrinkles do not show up in the final picture.
Headwear and Glasses
The Immigration Bureau requires the photo to be taken without a hat[1]. The cited instructions do not state an exception for religious or medical head coverings.
The cited instructions do not specify whether glasses are allowed[1]. If you decide to wear your everyday glasses, make sure the frames do not hide your eyes and that there is no glare on the lenses.
Print and Submission Rules
The cited permanent residence instructions require printed photos[1].
For a permanent residence application, provide five 4 by 6 cm photos taken within the last six months[1]. The cited instructions do not specify photo-paper type or printing quality.
Print your photos on matte or glossy paper using a high-resolution printer. Avoid home inkjet printers if the ink smears easily or leaves visible dots on the paper surface.
Step-by-Step Guide to Taking Your Photo
Taking your photo at home requires a few simple steps to achieve a clean result. First, find a comfortable space with good natural lighting, ideally facing a window. Ask a friend or family member to take the picture for you, as selfies often distort facial proportions and angle the camera too low.
The cited instructions call for a frontal half-length photo[1]. Follow the local office’s instructions for taking the photo.
Stand about two meters away from the camera to avoid distortion. Keep your shoulders square and look directly into the camera lens with a neutral facial expression.
Before You Go to the Office
Before visiting the Immigration Bureau, gather all your required documents along with your printed photos. Check the application guidelines again to confirm the exact number of copies you need to hand in.
Keep your photos in a clean envelope so they do not bend, fold, or get scratched on your way to the office.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The Immigration Bureau requires the photo to be taken without a hat[1]. Follow the instructions for your specific procedure.
Another common error is using old pictures that were taken more than six months ago. Always print fresh copies so your appearance matches the current date.
Using the Tool Above
The tool above can crop an image to 40 by 60 mm, the size specified for the permanent residence application[1].
Check the photo instructions for your specific residence-permit procedure before preparing prints.
Frequently asked questions
What is the official size for a Thai residence permit photo?
The official size is 40 by 60 mm, which is about 1.57 by 2.36 inches, and you need to submit five photos[1].
Can I wear a hat in the photo?
No, the Immigration Bureau requires a frontal half-length photo without a hat[1].
Are Polaroid photos accepted?
No, the authority states that Polaroids are not accepted for the permanent residence application[1].
How old can the photos be?
The photos must be recent and taken within six months before you submit your application[1].
What background color should I use?
The background color is not specified by the Immigration Bureau[1], but a plain, neutral background is recommended.
Can I use a selfie for my residence permit application?
Selfies often distort facial proportions and angle the camera too low, so it is better to have a helper take your picture from a proper distance.