Lebanon Residence Permit Photo Specifications

Lebanon Residence Permit Photo Size Diagram

Detailed Lebanon Residence Permit Photo Requirements

The Lebanese General Directorate of General Security has specific requirements for residence permit photos. Below is a comprehensive guide to ensure your photo is accepted for your Lebanon residence permit application.

Photo Basics

• Your photo must be in color — black and white photos are not accepted
• Must be a recent photo, taken within the last 3 months
• The photo must be clear and in focus, with no blurriness or pixelation
• No filters or digital alterations — do not apply beauty filters or digitally alter your appearance
• Must reflect your current appearance

Size and Dimensions

• Photo size: exactly 35 × 45 mm (3.5 × 4.5 cm)
• Your head should measure approximately 34 mm from chin to top of head (70–80% of photo)
• Leave about 3 mm of space from the top of your head to the upper edge
• Printed on matte or glossy photo-quality paper
• The photo must be taken within the last 3 months — this is a shorter recency requirement than passport or visa photos

Digital Photo Requirements

• File format: JPG, JPEG, or PNG
• File size: under 120 KB (for online submission)
• Aspect ratio: 7:9 (matching the 35×45mm dimensions)
• Resolution: 600 DPI for best quality
• The digital photo must meet the same background, pose, and expression requirements as printed photos

Pose and Expression

• Face the camera directly — your head must not be tilted or turned
• Maintain a neutral facial expression with your mouth closed
• Both eyes must be open and clearly visible
• Ensure your face is fully visible from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead, and ear to ear

Background

• Use a plain white background
• No patterns, textures, or objects visible behind you
• No shadows on your face or behind your head
• Sufficient contrast between your face and the background

Glasses

Glasses are not recommended. It is best to remove all eyewear, including prescription glasses, sunglasses, and tinted lenses, before taking the photo.

Head Coverings and Hats

• No hats or head coverings are allowed, unless worn daily for religious purposes
• If worn for religious reasons, your full face must still be visible from chin to forehead
• No headphones, earbuds, or wireless hands-free devices

Clothing

• Wear normal everyday clothing
• Do not wear uniforms, except religious clothing worn daily
• Avoid wearing white or very light-colored tops that may blend with the background

How to Take a Lebanon Residence Permit Photo at Home

You don't need a professional studio. Follow these simple steps to take a compliant photo at home using your smartphone.

1

Use a Smartphone or Digital Camera

Any modern smartphone camera is more than capable of taking a residence permit-quality photo. Make sure the lens is clean and set to the highest resolution.

Place your phone on a tripod or ask someone to help. Selfies tend to have the wrong angle.

2

Find Good Lighting

Stand facing a window with natural daylight for the best even lighting. Avoid direct sunlight which creates harsh shadows.

Tip: Don't worry if your background isn't perfectly white. Our AI tool will automatically replace it with white.

3

Dress Appropriately

Wear your normal everyday clothing. Avoid uniforms and white tops. Make sure your hair does not cover your eyes.

4

Pose Correctly

Stand about 1.5 meters in front of the camera with your head facing directly forward. Keep your shoulders relaxed and head level.

5

Maintain a Neutral Expression

Keep your face relaxed with a neutral expression. Both eyes must be open and mouth closed. Do not smile or frown.

Good and Bad Examples of Lebanon Residence Permit Photos

Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable residence permit photos

Frequently Asked Questions