Cyprus Visitor Visa Photo Requirements and Guidelines
Get your Cyprus visitor visa photo right by following the official rules for size, background, and head position.
Official Size and Head Measurements
When you apply for a visitor visa to Cyprus, your printed photographs must meet precise dimensions. The official photo size is 35 × 45 mm, which is about 1.38 × 1.77 inches[1]. You need to submit two identical colour photos taken within six months[1] to meet the application guidelines.
In addition to the overall physical size of the paper print, the internal proportions of your face are strictly measured. The head height, measured from the tip of your chin to the very top of your head, must be between 32 and 36 mm[1]. If your face is too large or too small inside the frame, the application office may reject the picture.
Background and Lighting Conditions
The background behind you must meet specific visual standards. The rules state that you must use a plain, brightly coloured background; consular guidance suggests light grey and says no patterns[1]. Avoid patterned wallpaper, textured walls, or any objects visible behind you. A solid, light grey wall works best, or you can hang a plain cloth sheet smoothly behind your seat without any wrinkles or folds.
Good lighting helps the camera capture a clear, high-quality image without casting unwanted shadows. Face a window with soft, natural daylight to illuminate your face evenly from the front. Avoid harsh overhead lights that cast dark shadows under your nose or chin, and make sure there are no dark shadows on the background wall behind you.
Facial Expression and Posture
Use a neutral expression, without smiling, and keep your mouth closed[1].
Keep your mouth closed and look straight at the camera[1].
Glasses, Headwear, and Appearance
The official source does not specify whether prescription glasses or sunglasses are allowed in the photo[1]. Because rules on eyewear can vary, many applicants choose to remove their glasses entirely to avoid any risk of flash glare on the lenses or thick frames hiding their eyes.
The official source does not specify rules for headwear[1].
Print Formats and Submission Rules
Submit two identical colour photos taken within six months[1]. The guidance excludes black-and-white photos and photos older than six months[1].
Keep in mind that this specific guidance is for a national Cyprus visa[2]. Cyprus is not currently issuing Schengen visas, so you must follow these national rules rather than standard European Schengen photo guidelines.
Rules for Child Applicants
Applying for children or infants requires careful attention because babies can be difficult to photograph. Minor applicants also need two identical recent photos[1] just like adult applicants do.
Minor applicants also need two identical recent photos[1]. Follow the stated size and photo requirements[1].
Taking the Photo and Using the Tool
You can easily take your photo at home using a digital camera or smartphone. Ask a family member or friend to take the picture for you, keeping the camera at eye level about one to one and a half meters away from your face to avoid lens distortion.
After taking your picture, you can use the tool above to crop your image to the correct 35 by 45 mm dimensions. The tool helps you place your cropped photo onto a standard 4 by 6 inch print sheet. Take this file to a local photo kiosk to print it as an ordinary photo, then cut out your two identical copies carefully with scissors.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wear glasses in my Cyprus visa photo?
The official source does not specify whether glasses are allowed[1].
What kind of clothing should I wear?
The source does not specify clothing requirements.
Can I smile in the photo?
No, you must maintain a neutral expression with your mouth closed[1].
How recent must the photos be?
The photos must be taken within six months of your application[1].