Somalia Passport Photo (35×45 mm) Requirements and Size Guide

Everything you need to know about Somalia passport photo requirements, including exact dimensions, background color, pose rules, and how to take a compliant photo at home.

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Somalia Passport Photo Specifications

RequirementSpecification
CountrySomalia (Soomaaliya)
Document TypeBiometric E-Passport
Photo Size35 × 45 mm (3.5 × 4.5 cm)
Resolution (DPI)600
Head Size32–36 mm from chin to crown (70–80% of photo), approximately 34.5 mm
Face Coverage70–80% of the photo
Background ColorPlain white
PrintableYes — on matte or glossy photo paper
Digital Photo Size600 × 750 pixels minimum
ColorColor only
RecencyTaken within the last 6 months
Number of Photos Required2 identical photos

Somalia Passport Photo Size Diagram

Somalia Passport Photo Size Diagram - 35×45 mm
Key measurements: The photo must be exactly 35×45 mm. Your face should cover 70–80% of the photo. The head height from chin to crown must be between 32–36 mm, approximately 34.5 mm.
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 35×45 mm size, remove and replace the background with white, adjust the head size, and ensure your photo meets all official requirements.

Detailed Somalia Passport Photo Requirements

Somalia issues biometric e-passports compliant with ICAO standards. 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 35 × 45 mm (3.5 × 4.5 cm)
  • Your face should cover 70–80% of the photo
  • Head height (chin to crown): between 32–36 mm, approximately 34.5 mm
  • Printed on quality photographic paper
  • You need 2 identical photos for embassy submission

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, prescription glasses with clear lenses are allowed provided there is no glare or reflections, and your eyes are clearly visible. Sunglasses are strictly prohibited.

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
  • The child's eyes must be open and visible
  • No toys, pacifiers, or other objects visible
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How to Take a Somalia Passport Photo at Home

1

Use a Smartphone or Digital Camera

Any modern smartphone camera can take a passport-quality photo. Place your phone on a tripod or ask someone to help.

Taking passport photo
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.
Proper lighting
3

Dress Appropriately

Wear normal everyday clothing. Avoid uniforms and white garments that blend with the background.

Appropriate attire
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.

Correct posing
5

Maintain a Neutral Expression

Both eyes open, mouth closed. No smiling or frowning.

Neutral expression

Good and Bad Examples

Good and bad examples

Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable passport photos

Frequently Asked Questions

What size is a Somalia passport photo?

A Somalia passport photo must be 35×45 mm (3.5×4.5 cm). Your face should cover 70–80% of the photo, with the chin-to-crown distance between 32–36 mm.

Can I wear glasses?

Glasses are not recommended. If worn, prescription lenses must be clear with no glare. Sunglasses are strictly prohibited. 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 passport 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 passport photo be?

Your passport 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 passport photos for a Somalia passport application.