Thai Work Permit Photo Requirements and Guide
You need a correct photo when you apply for or renew a Thai work permit. Read the official rules and learn how to prepare your picture.
Official Size and Dimensions
Form WP.25 specifies a 30 by 40 mm photo (about 1.18 by 1.57 inches)[1]. Other work-permit channels may have different requirements depending on your job type and application portal.
The cited form does not specify a head-height measurement[1]. Check the requirements for your application route.
When you take or trim your photo, stick closely to the 30 by 40 mm ratio required by the Department of Employment for paper forms[1]. Getting the dimensions right from the start helps you avoid delays when you submit your paperwork.
Background and Lighting Rules
Form WP.25 specifies photo dimensions but not a background color[1]. Even though the official rules do not name a specific background shade, picking a plain, neutral wall works best for clarity.
For a practice photo, use even lighting and avoid harsh shadows.
Ask a friend or family member to take the picture instead of holding the camera yourself at arm's length. Taking a selfie distorts your facial features because the camera is too close to your face.
Glasses and Head Coverings
Form WP.25 does not specify whether glasses are allowed[1]. If you wear prescription glasses every day, you can keep them on as long as the lenses do not reflect light and your eyes remain fully visible.
Form WP.25 does not specify headwear rules[1]. Unless you wear head coverings for religious or medical reasons, it is usually safer to take off hats and caps so the official reviewing your application can see your full face clearly.
Printed and Digital Submission Channels
Form WP.25 specifies a printed photo for that application[1]. The Department of Employment also operates an electronic work-permit system[2], but requirements depend on the worker category and process.
Other work-permit channels may use electronic submissions, and requirements and photo count vary by worker category and process[2]. Check the portal instructions for your application.
Check whether your application requires printed photos or a digital submission.
Preparing Your Photo at Home
For a Form WP.25 photo, follow the form’s stated requirements: a 30 by 40 mm photo[1]. Setting up a small photo station at home saves you time and money.
Stand about one meter away from the background to reduce shadows. Use a digital camera or a smartphone with a good lens, and set it at your eye level on a stable surface or tripod.
You can use the tool above to crop a Form WP.25 photo to 30 by 40 mm[1]. Check your crop carefully to make sure your face is centered before you print or save the final file.
Printing and Cutting Your Photos
If you need physical prints for your paperwork, print your 30 by 40 mm image on standard matte or glossy photo paper. Avoid using plain office paper because the ink will bleed and look grainy.
Many people arrange multiple copies of their 30 by 40 mm picture onto a standard 4 by 6 inch photo template before printing at a local store. Use a sharp pair of scissors or a paper cutter with a metal ruler to cut out straight, clean edges along the crop lines.
Common Reasons for Photo Refusal
Form WP.25 specifies a 30 by 40 mm photo[1]. The cited sources do not list common reasons for rejection.
Check the instructions for your application route, since photo requirements and photo count vary by worker category and process. Double-check your dimensions before heading to the appointment to keep your application moving forward smoothly.
Frequently asked questions
What is the official size for a Thai work permit photo?
Form WP.25 specifies a photograph size of 30×40 mm or 1.18×1.57 in[1].
Does the authority require a specific background color?
The application form specifies photograph dimensions but no background color[1].
Can I submit my photo digitally?
Yes, other work-permit channels and applications use electronic submissions, and requirements and photo count vary by worker category and process[2].
Can I wear glasses in my work permit photo?
The rules for glasses are unspecified by the authority[1], but you should confirm your eyes are clearly visible without any glare or obstruction.
How can I print my photo easily?
You can use the tool above to format your cropped picture onto a 4×6-inch sheet for printing at a standard photo kiosk.
Should I wear a hat or head covering?
Form WP.25 does not specify headwear rules[1]. Check the instructions for your application route.