Technical photo requirements
- Your photo needs to be taken within the last 12 months.
- The photo must be in focus, with no red-eye or reflected light on the face.
- The background must be plain and light, and with no shadows.
- It must be a full front view of your face and shoulders.
- Your head must be centred with a clear gap around the sides, top and bottom of the head.
- Your cannot wear dark glasses, sunglasses or headwear (except for religius or medical reasons*)
- Your photo must be printed on photo quality paper in colour
- Portrait photo 35mm x 45mm in dimension
- No selfies
- Please note that the cost of the photos are additional to the application fee
Photo requirements
No background shadow or uneven lighting on the face
- Stand slightly away from the background.
- Ensure that the light source is balanced, natural lighting is best.
True likeness
- The image must be a true likeness and not be altered or distorted in any way.
- Have someone else take the photo, and ensure the camera is:
- 1.5m back from the face
- At eye level
- If the camera is too close to the face, the nose and forehead may appear larger and the ears less visible.
Gap around the head
- Your head must be centred with a clear gap around the sides, top and bottom of the head.
- Strong contrast between the image and the background
- Use a plain, light coloured background that is not white and does not contain objects or other people.
Face in full view
- Face front on to the camera.
- Hair should be off the eyes and sides of the face.
Eyes are clearly visible
- You can wear glasses in your photo.
- They cannot be sunglasses, tinted or thick-framed.
- There can be no glare or flash reflection on the lenses.
- There must be a clear gap between your eyes and the frames.
Neutral expression
- Have a neutral expression with the mouth closed.
No hats, hoods, headbands or headscarves
- No head covering or headband should be worn in the photo, unless you must wear either for religious or medical reasons.
- *In this case you will need an provide details on your form (Step 2)
Selfies
- No selfies as it can distort the face