Overview

You must upload a passport-style photo for each passenger when applying for a UAE eVisa. The photo should be recent, clear, and meet the usual rules for passport photos (plain background, face clearly visible, no hats or glasses unless required for religious or medical reasons). Poor or incorrect photos can delay your application or lead to rejection.

General Rules

• One photo per passenger – Each person (adults and children) needs their own photo.
• Recent – Taken within the last few months and looking like you now.
• Passport-style – Front-facing, from the shoulders up, similar to a passport or ID photo. No full-body or casual shots.

Background

• Plain – Use a plain, light background (e.g. white or light grey). No patterns, other people, or objects.
• Uniform – Same colour and lighting across the background. No shadows or stripes.
• Contrast – Your face and shoulders should stand out clearly from the background.

Face and Expression

• Face fully visible – Face the camera directly. Both ears can be visible if possible; at least the full face from hairline to chin must be clear.
• Neutral expression – Eyes open, mouth closed, natural expression. No smiling, frowning, or exaggerated expressions.
• Eyes – Look at the camera. No red-eye; avoid strong flash if you are taking the photo yourself.
• No obstructions – Nothing (hair, hands, accessories) should cover your face.

Clothing and Accessories

• No hat or cap – Unless worn for religious reasons (e.g. head covering that is worn daily). If you wear one, your face must still be fully visible from forehead to chin.
• No sunglasses or tinted glasses – Clear glasses may be allowed if they do not obscure your eyes and there is no glare; check the application. If in doubt, take the photo without glasses.
• Normal clothing – Wear everyday clothes. Avoid white if the background is white so you do not blend in.

Quality and Format

• Clear and sharp – Not blurred, pixelated, or dark. Good lighting without harsh shadows.
• Correct orientation – Right way up; not rotated or sideways.
• File type – Usually JPEG or PNG. The upload step will state accepted formats and any size limits.
• No editing – Do not alter the photo (e.g. beauty filters, background removal) unless the application allows it. The image should look like you in person.

Children’s Photos

• Same rules – Children need a passport-style photo too: plain background, face visible, clear and recent.
• Expression – Babies and young children may not have a fully neutral expression; that is usually acceptable as long as the face is clearly visible and the photo is otherwise suitable.
• One photo per child – Each child must have their own photo uploaded for their passenger record.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a selfie?
You can take the photo yourself (e.g. with a phone) as long as it meets the rules: plain background, face clearly visible, no hat or sunglasses, good quality. It should look like a passport photo, not a casual selfie.

Do I need a professional photo?
No. A photo taken at home or at a photo booth is fine if it meets the requirements. Many applicants use a phone against a plain wall with good lighting.

Can I wear religious headwear?
Yes, if you wear it daily for religious reasons. Your face must still be fully visible from forehead to chin.

My photo was rejected. What should I do?
Check the reason given (if any). Usually it is background, lighting, or face not clear. Take a new photo with a plain background, even lighting, and a clear view of your face, then upload again when we or the system ask for it.

What size should the photo be?
The application or upload step will state the required size (e.g. in pixels or file size). Follow that. A typical passport-style photo (e.g. 2×2 inch equivalent in pixels) is usually acceptable if the aspect ratio and quality are correct.

Can I use an old passport photo?
Only if it is recent (within the last few months) and still looks like you. If you look different (e.g. different hair, age, beard), take a new photo to avoid delays or rejection.