Kenya
Photo requirements for passports, visas, and ID cards. Includes dimensions, background rules, and biometric requirements for 2 document types.
Helpful pages for document photos in Kenya
Use these pages to move from country-level requirements to a specific document format, troubleshooting help, and print guidance.
Main document requirements
Open the main document requirements page for this country to see dimensions, background rules, and face-position guidance.
Why photos get rejected
Fix the most common background, framing, and expression problems.
Passport Photo Size Guide
Compare this country's dimensions with other common formats.
How to print passport photos
Print at home or at a pharmacy without scaling errors.
About photo requirements
When applying for a travel document in Kenya, meeting the strict standards set by the Department of Immigration Services is essential for a smooth process. Your passport photo must be clear, high-quality, and recent to ensure identity verification is successful. As Kenya moves towards digital integration, including the Huduma Namba system, following these precise guidelines is the first step in avoiding delays with your application.
The official dimensions for a Kenyan passport photo are 35mm in width by 45mm in height. You must provide a clear, full-face view against a plain white background without any shadows or patterns. Neutral facial expressions with eyes open are mandatory, and glasses must be removed to prevent glare or reflections. Head coverings are only permitted for religious reasons, provided they do not obscure your facial features or cast shadows.
See the full 35 × 45 mm §t:61f37e75§ specifications for exact dimensions, face position, and background rules.
The Kenyan passport application process has transitioned to an online platform via the eCitizen portal. When uploading your digital photo, ensure the file is in JPEG format and meets the specific resolution requirements stipulated by the Immigration Services. If you prefer to prepare your file at home, tools like idpic.app can help you format your image to the correct dimensions before you upload it to your application.
Common issues
A frequent reason for application rejection in Kenya is the use of an incorrect background colour or poor lighting that creates shadows on the face. Many applicants also fail because their photos are either too old or do not show a neutral expression, which is strictly enforced. Furthermore, wearing eyewear that obscures the eyes or having hair that covers the forehead and ears will often lead to immediate disqualification.
Learn more about common passport photo rejection reasons and how to fix them, or check our passport photo size guide for a global comparison.
Local tips
While you can visit a professional photography studio in major cities like Nairobi or Mombasa, costs can vary significantly depending on the location. For a more convenient and cost-effective approach, you can take a high-quality photo against a plain white wall at home using natural lighting. Always double-check that your printed photos are on high-quality photographic paper if you are submitting them physically at a Huduma Centre.
For a step-by-step walkthrough, see our DIY passport photo guide or learn how to print passport photos at home.
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