Australia

Australian seafarer certificate photo (35×45 mm)

Required size: 35×45 mm (1.38×1.77 in). Your photo is processed on your device.

The issuing authority doesn't publish one photo size for this document, so the studio uses the size most often asked for. Check the current rules with the authority or organisation that issues it before you apply.

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Upload a portrait from your phone or take one with your camera.

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Photo requirements

  • Size: 35×45 mm (1.38×1.77 in)
  • Head size: 32–36 mm from chin to top of head
  • Background: White, Light grey
  • Privacy: Processed on your device; the photo is not uploaded

Background

Put an accepted colour behind you. This happens on your device.

Download or print

Download a single photo, or a sheet with several copies to print at a photo kiosk.

💡 Printing tip

Save the sheet to your phone or a USB drive and order it at a photo kiosk as a standard 4×6-inch print.

Choose an ordinary photo print, not the passport photo service.

Official specification

Official nameCertificate of competency (seafarer certificate)
How you hand it inPrinted photo or digital upload
Photo size35×45 mm (1.38×1.77 in)
Head height (chin to top of head)32–36 mm
BackgroundWhite, Light grey
GlassesTake them off, unless you can’t for medical reasons
Head coveringOnly for religious or medical reasons, with the face fully visible
ExpressionNeutral, mouth closed, eyes open

Australian Seafarer Certificate Photo Requirements

Find out the exact photo size, background rules, and submission details you need for your Australian seafarer certificate application.

Official Size and Dimensions

AMSA does not publish a single photo size for seafarer certificates. The 35 × 45 mm crop is a common passport-photo size used here as a practical guide, not an AMSA requirement. Check the instructions for your application route before submitting[1][2].

The head height must be 32 to 36 mm, measured from the chin to the top of the head[3]. You can use the tool above to crop your picture to the standard 35 by 45 millimeter size for your records, practice, or other personal uses.

Background and Lighting Requirements

Your photo must have a plain white or light grey background that contrasts with the face[1]. Avoid using patterned walls, textured wallpaper, or colored backdrops that fail to meet this standard. Stand a short distance away from the wall to prevent dark shadows from appearing behind your head and shoulders.

Face a bright window to get natural, even light on your face. Make sure the lighting is balanced on both sides so your facial features remain clear and easy to see without harsh glares or dark patches.

Expression, Glasses, and Headwear

You must maintain a neutral expression when the photo is taken[1]. Your mouth must be closed at all times during the shot[1]. Look directly into the camera lens with your eyes wide open, completely visible, and free from hair or shadows.

Follow the Australian passport photo guidelines for glasses and headwear[1].

Submission Methods and Who Takes the Photo

The rules for how the photo is captured and submitted vary depending on how you apply[1]. For in-person applications in Australia, Australia Post takes the photo at lodgement[1]. If you apply online, you can upload a recent photo or take one when prompted by the digital system[1].

If you send your application via overseas email, you must attach one recent colour passport-style photograph[1]. The submission process bridges both online and offline channels depending entirely on your current location and application type[1].

Taking Your Photo at Home Step by Step

You can take your own photo at home using a digital camera or a smartphone. Ask a friend or family member to take the picture for you instead of attempting a handheld selfie, which can distort your face. Keep the camera at your eye level about one to one and a half meters away from your face.

Stand against the required plain background and check that your head and upper torso are fully captured in the frame. Review the digital image carefully to make sure your expression is neutral and your mouth is closed before you prepare your final file[1].

Infant and Child Photo Rules

If you need to submit a photo for a child or infant as part of a family or dependent filing, special considerations apply. No separate infant rules are specified for seafarer certificates; photo must meet Australian passport photo guidelines[1]. This means infants should face the camera with eyes open and mouth closed if possible, though strict neutrality is interpreted flexibly for very young babies.

Laying the infant on a plain white or light grey sheet on the floor can help you get the required background[1]. Always confirm the current guidelines with the issuing authority before you finalize your submission for a young child[1].

Frequently asked questions

What size is the Australian seafarer certificate photo?

The authority publishes no single official size; the studio uses the size most often asked for, which is typically 35 by 45 millimeters[1]. For head height, follow the Australian passport photo guideline of 32 to 36 mm from the chin to the top of the head[3].

Who takes the photo for the application?

For in-person applications in Australia, Australia Post takes the photo at lodgement, while online applicants can upload or take one when prompted, and overseas email applications require attaching one recent colour passport-style photograph[1].

What background color do I need to use?

You must use a plain white or light grey background that contrasts with the face[1].

Are glasses allowed in the photo?

Glasses are conditional, so you must check if they create glare or obscure your eyes[1].

Can I wear a hat or head covering?

Headwear is permitted on a religious-medical-only basis, and your full face must remain completely visible[1].