UAE Work Permit Photo Requirements
Preparing a work permit application in the United Arab Emirates requires a correct photo, and knowing what the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation expects helps you get your documents ready.
Official Size and Document Rules
The opened official guidance does not state a photo size. A common practical crop is 35 by 45 mm (about 1.38 by 1.77 inches).
Official employment guidance requires a colour photo with a white background, but the opened pages do not state dimensions[1][2].
Confirm the required dimensions with your employer before preparing the photo.
Background and Lighting Requirements
Official employment guidance requires a colour photo with a white background[1][2].
Use a plain white background when you take the picture. Standing a short distance away from the wall may help reduce shadows on the backdrop.
Use even lighting so your face is clear and easy to see. Avoid heavy shadows under your chin or across your eyes, as dark spots can obscure your features.
Turn off bright lights behind you and face a soft light source, such as a large window or a balanced lamp.
How to Take Your Photo Step by Step
You can take a photo with a digital camera or a phone. Ask someone to take it for you or set the camera on a stable surface like a tripod or shelf.
Place the camera at your eye level and look straight toward the lens. Keep your shoulders square and your face centered in the frame.
The official guidance does not state a head-height measurement. Center your head as a practical framing choice.
Relax your face and keep your expression natural with your mouth closed.
Digital Submission and Your Employer
The employer submits the worker's colour photo with a white background as part of the work-permit application[1][2].
Give your employer a clear digital photo. You can use the tool above to crop it to a practical size.
Ask your employer which dimensions to use before you finalize the file. Since the submission goes through your company, keeping a digital backup on your device is a good idea.
Using the Tool and Preparing Your File
The opened guidance does not specify pixel dimensions. Confirm any size requirements with your employer.
The authority or your employer decides whether the photo meets the application requirements.
Ask your employer whether it needs a digital file or a print, and check any file-format instructions.
When you use an online cropper, keep the white background visible and check that the crop leaves enough space around your head and shoulders.
Common Reasons Photos Are Refused
Use a white background as required by the official employment guidance[1][2].
Use a colour photo with a white background[1][2].
Check that your face is clear in the photo before sending it to your employer.
Check that your photo is clear and the background is white before sending it to your employer.
Checking Your Photo Before You Send
Before you hand the final file to your company, look closely at the details. Check that the image is in full colour and not black and white.
Make sure the background is completely white without patterns or dark spots. Verify that your eyes are open and looking at the camera.
If you notice any blur, take a new picture with a steadier hand or better light. Small checks save time during the work permit process.