Kenya Official Document Photo Requirements
Prepare correct photographs for your Kenyan passport, visa, and permit applications using official size guidelines.
Kenyan Passports and Travel Authorisations
When you apply for official Kenyan documents, you need to provide a correct photograph that meets application standards. This page covers photo rules for several official applications managed by the immigration authorities. These include the Kenyan passport[1] and the Kenya electronic travel authorisation[2].
Each application may have specific submission methods, but they share common size standards that make preparation straightforward. You can prepare these photos easily using the tool above. Taking time to get the lighting and background right before you start will save you frustration later.
Work, Student, and Dependant Passes
If you want to work or study in the country, you must submit proper photos with your application paperwork. This official requirement applies to the Kenya work permit[3] and the Kenya student pass[4].
Family members also need correct photos when applying for dependent documentation. This includes the Kenya dependant pass[5], which allows family members to stay with the main permit holder. Make sure your face is clearly visible and your expression remains neutral in all copies you submit.
Residence and Foreigner Identification
Living long-term in the country requires specific identification cards and official status records. You need a suitable photograph for the Kenya foreigner certificate (Alien Card)[6].
Other long-term statuses and legal recognitions also require photos for verification. These include the Kenya permanent residence application[7] and the citizenship registration application[8], both of which require careful attention to detail. Keep your shoulders square and look straight ahead toward the camera lens.
Seafarers and Temporary Permits
Workers in maritime industries need specialized identification books and official credentials. You must supply a photograph for the Kenya seafarer discharge book[9] when working on ships.
Short-term stays also require proper paperwork and identification images. This includes the Kenya temporary permit[10] for visitors who need extended short-term stay authorization. Always check whether your specific paperwork requires a digital file or a physical print before you submit.
Photo Size and Head Height Rules
The supplied guidance lists 35×45 mm as a common size for the documents covered here. Check each application’s instructions for its photo requirements.
The supplied guidance does not list head-height measurements for these documents. Check the relevant application instructions for framing and other photo requirements.
Submitting Your Photos
The supplied guidance lists printed submission for a student pass and digital submission for an electronic travel authorisation[2][4]. Check each application’s instructions for its required format.
The supplied guidance lists printed and digital submission for work permit and permanent residence photos. Check the relevant application instructions for the format and size.
Taking the Photo at Home
You can easily take your ID photo at home using a smartphone or digital camera and a blank wall. Stand about one to two meters away from the background to avoid harsh shadows behind your head. Ask a friend or family member to take the picture instead of trying a selfie, because selfies distort facial proportions.
Turn on soft, even lighting in front of you. Avoid standing directly under harsh overhead lights or in front of bright windows, which can cast dark shadows on your face or leave you underexposed. Wear everyday clothing that contrasts well with your background.
Checking and Printing Your Photo
Before you finalize your picture, check that your entire head and the top of your shoulders are visible inside the frame. Keep your mouth closed and your eyes wide open looking directly at the camera lens.
If you need physical prints, place your cropped 35x45 mm image onto a standard 4x6-inch photo template. Print the sheet at a local photo shop on matte or glossy paper, then use scissors or a paper cutter to trim the edges carefully.
Frequently asked questions
What size photo do I need for a Kenyan passport?
The common size used is 35x45 mm, as there is no single official size set by the authority[1].
Are head height measurements specified for Kenya visa photos?
No head height is set in the official guidelines for the Kenya electronic travel authorisation[2].
Do I need printed or digital photos for a work permit?
A Kenya work permit accepts both printed and digital submissions[3].
Can I use the same photo for multiple applications?
How do I print my photo for an application?
You can crop your image to 35x45 mm and arrange it on a 4x6-inch sheet to print at a standard photo kiosk.
Should I wear glasses in my ID photo?
You should remove tinted glasses and avoid heavy frames that obscure your eyes to prevent application delays.