Country guide · 🇦🇪 UAE · Last verified: February 2025

UAE Residence / Visa Photo Requirements

Official photo specifications for UAE Residence / Visa — size, background, head position, and submission format. Verified against ica.gov.ae.

Written by the PixID.studio compliance team · February 2025

Verified against ica.gov.ae, February 2025. Each requirement is automatically checked when you create your photo with PixID.

Size

45×55 mm

Background

White

Expression

Neutral, mouth closed

Ears

Both visible

Head covering

Religious only

Recency

≤ 6 months

Resolution

300 DPI

Glasses

Not allowed

Medical exception only

Photos required

2 identical

Background and lighting

The background must be white, uniform and completely shadow-free. Requirements:

Uniform colour — no gradients, patterns, or textures
No shadows cast on the background or on the face
Evenly lit — no dark spots or bright patches
No other people or objects visible in the frame

Avoid wearing clothing that matches the background colour, as it can blend in and cause rejection.

Expression and appearance

Expression: Neutral, mouth closed. Mouth closed, no smiling.
Eyes: both open, looking directly at the camera. No red-eye or glare.
Ears: Both visible must be visible.
Glasses: not permitted. Sunglasses and tinted lenses always prohibited.
Head covering: Religious only. Full face must be visible with no shadows.
Hair: must not cover the eyes or obscure facial features.
Clothing: everyday attire. Uniforms not permitted.

Common rejection reasons

Wrong background — must be white. Any deviation causes rejection.
Glasses — not permitted unless medically documented.
Shadows — on the face or background from poor lighting.
Head size incorrect — face must fill 70–80% of the frame.
Non-neutral expression — smile, raised eyebrows, or open mouth.
Photo too old — must be taken within ≤ 6 months.
Low resolution or blur — minimum 300 DPI for print submissions.
Digital retouching — beauty filters or skin smoothing cause rejection.

Verified against ica.gov.ae · All checks automated

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Frequently asked questions

What are the UAE Residence / Visa photo requirements?

UAE Residence / Visa photos must be 45×55 mm, background white. Neutral expression, both eyes open. Photo within 6 months. Min 300 DPI. Source: ica.gov.ae.

What size is a UAE Residence / Visa photo?

The required size is 45×55 mm. The face should occupy 70–80% of the photo area with both ears visible and a neutral expression.

What background is required for a UAE Residence / Visa photo?

The background must be white, uniform and shadow-free. No patterns, textures, or objects.

Can I wear glasses in a UAE Residence / Visa photo?

No. Glasses are generally not permitted. Prescription glasses may be allowed with a medical certificate — check ica.gov.ae.

How recent must a UAE Residence / Visa photo be?

The photo must have been taken within 6 months and reflect your current appearance.

Can I create a UAE Residence / Visa photo online?

Yes. PixID creates compliant UAE Residence / Visa photos: select your document, upload a photo, and get a ready-to-use file in minutes. $4.99, 100% money-back guarantee if rejected.