Submitting a passport photo may look or resemble a natural task, but when applying through Singapore’s Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA), following accurate photograph guidelines is essential. A poorly offered photograph can result in request delays or complete rejection.
Whether you are applying for a warrant, identity card (NRIC), or PR rank, understanding ICA’s photograph rules guarantees a smooth and effective process.
This guide outlines the key necessities for a passport photo for ICA and describes how to meet them favourably.
Photo Dimensions and Size
The ICA has very specific requirements for the intensity and format of passport photos:
1. Dimensions:
35mm wide by 45mm high (passport-size).
2. Face Size:
The face occupies 70–80% of the photograph, roughly 32–36mm from chin to crown.
3. Resolution:
For digital compliances, the image must be in JPEG format, accompanying a file size between 150KB and 2 MB.
4. Background:
Must be plain white, without any patterns, objects, or shadows.
Photos that do not meet these size and layout requirements will be rejected automatically by one of ICA’s systems.
Lighting and Quality
Lighting plays a bigger role in the agreement of a passport photo:
1. Even Lighting:
The face must be constantly lit, accompanying no harsh shadows or overexposed regions.
2. No Red Eye or Glare:
These common photograph errors are undesirable and must be avoided.
3. Sharp Focus and Clarity:
The photograph must be in clear focus, accompanying no blurriness or pixelation.
Studio lighting or indirect daylight (without direct sunlight) consistently provides the highest in rank conditions for accomplishing the required clearness.
Facial Expression and Pose
ICA’s rules are quite strict when it comes to how you should present yourself in the photograph:
1. Neutral Expression:
Eyes open, mouth closed, and no laughing. A relaxed, neutral face is mandatory.
2. Direct Gaze:
The subject must look straight into the camcorder.
3. Full Face Visibility:
The head must be centered and adequately visible, accompanying no tilt or side angle.
These rules ensure thickness and allow for correct biometric scanning.
Appearance and Attire
How you present yourself in the corporate photoshoot also matters:
1. No Headgear:
Head coverings are prohibited unless used daily for religious or medical reasons. Even therefore, they must not cast shadows on the face.
2. No Uniforms:
Wearing uniforms or clothing that looks like official attire is not allowed.
3. No Accessories:
Avoid big earrings, necklaces, or decorative pieces. Glasses must not obstruct analysis or cause reflection; in many cases, it is best to eliminate them.
Wearing dark-colored clothes is urged to create contrast against the silvery background.
Validity and Currency of the Photo
1. Recent Photo:
The photograph must have been taken within the last three months.
2. Unaltered Image:
Digital enhancements or filters are illegal. The image must indicate your current appearance correctly.
Outdated or digitally modified concepts can result in delays or rejections.
Conclusion
Adhering to ICA’s passport photo rules is a small but critical step in the request process for official identification documents in Singapore. By guaranteeing the correct dimensions, ignition, facial language, and attire, applicants can avoid unnecessary setbacks.
Whether you are requesting a new passport, renewing your NRIC, or submitting for PR rank, following these guidelines will make your application profitable and stress-free. When in doubt, contemplate using a professional photograph studio familiar with ICA requirements to guarantee agreement.