Everything you need to know about Rwanda passport photo requirements, including exact dimensions, background color, pose rules, and how to take a compliant photo at home.
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Country | Rwanda |
| Document Type | Passport (e-Passport) |
| Photo Size | 35 × 45 mm (3.5 × 4.5 cm) |
| Resolution (DPI) | 600 |
| Head Size | 24–32 mm from chin to crown (60–80% of photo) |
| Face Coverage | 60–80% of the photo |
| Background Color | Plain white |
| Printable | Yes — on high-quality matte photo paper |
| Digital for Online Submission | Yes (via IremboGov portal) |
| Digital Photo Size | JPG format, max 200 KB |
| Color | Color only |
| Recency | Taken within the last 6 months |
| Number of Photos Required | 2 photos (for physical submission) |
The Rwanda Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration (DGIE) has strict requirements for passport photos. Below is a comprehensive guide to ensure your photo is accepted.
Glasses are NOT permitted in Rwandan passport photos. You must remove your glasses before the photo is taken to guarantee acceptance.
You don't need a professional studio. Follow these simple steps to take a compliant Rwanda passport photo at home using your smartphone.
Any modern smartphone camera is more than capable of taking a passport-quality photo. Make sure the lens is clean and the camera is set to the highest resolution.
Place your phone on a tripod or ask someone to take the photo for you. Selfies tend to have the wrong angle and distortion.
Stand facing a window with natural daylight for the best even lighting. Avoid direct sunlight, which creates harsh shadows. If using indoor lighting, use multiple light sources from different angles to eliminate shadows.
Wear your normal everyday clothing. Avoid uniforms and white tops that blend with the background. Make sure your hair does not cover your eyes or eyebrows.
Stand about 1.2 meters (4 feet) in front of the camera with your head facing directly forward. Keep your shoulders relaxed and your head level — not tilted.
Keep your face relaxed with a neutral expression. Both eyes must be open and your mouth closed. No smiling, laughing, or exaggerated expressions.
Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable passport photos
A Rwanda passport photo must be 35×45 mm (3.5×4.5 cm). Your face should cover 60–80% of the photo, with the head size between 24–32 mm from chin to crown.
No. Glasses are not permitted in Rwandan passport photos. You must remove your glasses before taking the photo.
The background must be plain white with no shadows, patterns, or objects visible. If you don't have a white wall, our tool will automatically replace your background with white.
You need 2 identical passport photos for a Rwanda passport application.
Yes! Simply upload it to PassportPhoto.help and our AI will automatically crop, resize, remove the background, and ensure it meets all official requirements.
No. You must maintain a neutral facial expression with your mouth closed and both eyes open.
Your passport photo must have been taken within the last 6 months and should reflect your current appearance.
If your passport photo doesn't meet the requirements, your application will be delayed. Using PassportPhoto.help ensures your photo meets all official requirements before you submit.
