Official Photo Requirements for São Tomé and Príncipe Documents
Get your passport, visa, and ID photos right for your São Tomé and Príncipe applications. Use the tool above to format your pictures correctly at home.
Documents Covered on This Page
This page covers five essential documents issued for São Tomé and Príncipe. You will find clear guidelines for the São Tomé and Príncipe passport, the national ID card, the visitor e-visa, the residence authorization, and the driving licence.
Photo size and submission method vary by document. Check the relevant application instructions before preparing your photo.
Passport Photo Rules and Submission
The listed official passport photo size is 35×45 mm[1][2]. The verified information lists both printed and digital photo submission[1].
The verified information does not set a head-height measurement for the passport photo. When preparing your passport picture, focus on keeping your face clearly lit and centered in the frame.
National ID Cards and Driving Licences
The listed common size for a national ID photo is 35×45 mm, and the photo is submitted in printed form.
The listed common size for a driving licence photo is 35×45 mm, and the photo is submitted in printed form. Having printed copies ready before your appointment helps you complete your paperwork quickly.
Visas and Residence Authorisations
The listed common photo size for a visitor e-visa is 35×45 mm, and submission is digital[3].
The listed common photo size for a residence authorization is 35×45 mm, and submission is digital[4]. Digital uploads require you to pay close attention to file size limits and image clarity before submitting your application through the online portal.
Head Height and Background Details
The verified information does not set a head-height measurement for these five documents. Centre your face horizontally and vertically in the frame when taking the photo.
A plain, light background can help keep your face clear in the photo without any distracting patterns or objects behind you.
Practical Tips for Taking Your Photo
You can easily prepare your pictures at home with basic equipment before submitting them. Stand about one to one and a half metres away from the camera and keep the lens at your exact eye level to avoid distortion. Having a helper take the picture for you works much better than trying to use a self-timer or taking a selfie, because selfie cameras distort facial features.
Face a bright window to get natural light on your face and avoid harsh shadows under your chin or behind your head. You can use the tool above to crop your photo to the exact 35x45 mm dimensions before you print it on a standard 4x6-inch photo sheet or save it as a digital file.
Checking and Preparing Your Photo
Before you send your digital file or print your photo, check the crop carefully. Your full face and the top of your shoulders should be visible inside the frame with equal space around your head.
If you are printing your photo at home, check your printer settings so the final cut measures exactly 35x45 mm on paper. Use a sharp pair of scissors or a paper cutter to trim the edges neatly. Keep your mouth closed, avoid smiling too wide, and look directly at the camera lens with a neutral expression.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many photo rejections happen because of bad lighting or dark shadows on the background. Make sure you do not stand too close to the wall behind you, as this creates unwanted shadows.
Avoid wearing hats, tinted glasses, or heavy clothing that hides your face shape and natural hairline. Keep your hair tied back if it covers your eyes or ears so the authority can verify your identity quickly. Check that your clothing contrasts nicely with the background so your shoulders stand out clearly.
Frequently asked questions
What is the official size for a São Tomé and Príncipe passport photo?
Do I need a printed or digital photo for the visitor e-visa?
The visitor e-visa requires a digital photo submission[3].
Is there an official head height rule for ID photos?
The verified information does not list a head-height measurement for these documents.
Can I use the same photo size for my driving licence and passport?
How do I submit my residence authorization photo?
The residence authorization photo requires a digital submission[4].