Photo Requirements

Visa photo requirements

One of the essential parts of preparing for your passport or visa applications is obtaining the correct photos. Most government agencies and travel agents will advise you that you require passport-sized photos. This can be confusing since different countries have various photo specifications. Generally, Vietnamese officials are not overly strict about the photo details, but you still need to be aware of the following rules as of 2025:

General requirements:

• The applicant's face must be at a neutral expression, without smiling or frowning.
• Your photos must be taken within 6 months of the application date. A dated stamp is not necessary, but it is essential to ensure that your appearance has not changed dramatically.
• Photos should be taken against a plain white background and printed on quality photographic paper.
• You cannot wear any kind of glasses while taking these photos.
• Head coverings, hats, and scarves are strictly prohibited, as are any accessories that cover your ears or forehead.

Accepted photo

Photo size:

• Passport-size photos: must strictly be 4x6 cm.
• Visa photos: requirements depend on the country of residence, and they can be either 4x6 cm or 2x2 inches.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always check the official resources or guidelines provided by your local embassy or consulate. Monitoring the specific requirements for the country you are applying for is crucial as regulations are subject to change.