Somalia National ID Card Photo (40×60 mm) Requirements and Size Guide
Everything you need to know about Somalia national ID card photo requirements, including exact dimensions, background color, pose rules, and how to take a compliant photo at home.
Somalia National ID Card Photo Specifications
Requirement
Specification
Country
Somalia (Soomaaliya)
Document Type
National ID Card
Photo Size
40 × 60 mm (4.0 × 6.0 cm)
Resolution (DPI)
600
Head Size
Face occupies 70–80% of the photo
Face Coverage
70–80% of the photo
Background Color
Plain white
Printable
Yes — on matte or glossy photo paper
Digital Photo Size
600 × 900 pixels minimum
Color
Color only
Recency
Taken within the last 6 months
Number of Photos Required
2 identical photos
Somalia ID Card Photo Size Diagram
Key measurements: The photo must be exactly 40×60 mm (4.0×6.0 cm), which is larger than the standard 35×45 mm format. Your face should cover 70–80% of the photo.
Don't worry about getting the perfect photo. Upload any photo taken at home, and our AI-powered tool will automatically crop to the correct 40×60 mm size, remove and replace the background with white, adjust the head size, and ensure your photo meets all official requirements.
Detailed Somalia National ID Card Photo Requirements
Somalia's national ID card uses the 40×60 mm photo format, which is larger than the standard 35×45 mm passport format. The card is ICAO compliant. Below is a comprehensive guide to the photo requirements.
Photo Basics
Your photo must be in color
Must be a recent photo, taken within the last 6 months
The photo must be clear and in focus, sharp with high contrast
No digital alterations or retouching
Must reflect your current appearance
Size and Dimensions
Photo size: exactly 40 × 60 mm (4.0 × 6.0 cm)
Your face should cover 70–80% of the photo
Printed on quality photographic paper
You need 2 identical photos
Pose and Expression
Face the camera directly — full frontal view, head not tilted
Maintain a neutral facial expression with your mouth closed
Both eyes must be open and clearly visible
Keep your mouth closed — no smiling
Both ears should be visible
Background
Use a plain white background — no shadows, patterns, or objects
Glasses
Glasses are not recommended. If absolutely necessary, lenses must be clear with no glare or reflections, and your eyes must be clearly visible. Best practice is to remove them.
Head Coverings
No head coverings, except for religious or medical reasons
If worn for religious reasons, your face must be fully visible from chin to forehead
Head coverings must not cast shadows on your face
Clothing
Wear normal everyday clothing
Do not wear uniforms
Avoid wearing white or very pale garments that blend with the background
Children and Baby Photos
The child must be the only person in the photo — no parent's hands or arms visible
Any modern smartphone camera can take an ID card-quality photo. Place your phone on a tripod or ask someone to help.
2
Find Good Lighting
Stand facing a window with natural daylight for even lighting. Avoid direct sunlight and use multiple light sources to eliminate shadows.
Tip: Our AI tool will automatically replace your background with white.
3
Dress Appropriately
Wear normal everyday clothing. Avoid uniforms and white garments that blend with the background.
4
Pose Correctly
Stand about 1.2 meters in front of the camera. Keep your shoulders relaxed, head level, facing forward. Both ears should be visible.
5
Maintain a Neutral Expression
Both eyes open, mouth closed. No smiling or frowning.
Good and Bad Examples
Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable ID card photos
Frequently Asked Questions
What size is a Somalia ID card photo?
A Somalia national ID card photo must be 40×60 mm (4.0×6.0 cm), which is larger than the standard 35×45 mm passport format. Your face should cover 70–80% of the photo.
Can I wear glasses?
Glasses are not recommended. If worn, lenses must be clear with no glare. Best practice is to remove them.
Can I smile?
No. You must maintain a neutral facial expression with your mouth closed and both eyes open.
Can I take my Somalia ID card photo with my phone?
Yes! Simply upload it to PassportPhoto.help and our AI will handle cropping, resizing, and background removal automatically.
What background is required?
A plain white background with no shadows or patterns. Our tool will automatically replace your background.
How recent must my Somalia ID card photo be?
Your ID card photo must have been taken within the last 6 months and should reflect your current appearance.
Can I wear a hat or head covering?
No, hats and head coverings are not allowed except for religious or medical reasons. Your full face must remain visible from chin to forehead.
How many photos do I need?
You need 2 identical photos for a Somalia national ID card application.
