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

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

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Samoa Passport Photo Specifications

RequirementSpecification
CountrySamoa
Document TypePassport
Photo Size35 × 45 mm (3.5 × 4.5 cm)
Resolution (DPI)600
Head SizeApproximately 34.5 mm from chin to top of hair (70–80%)
Face Coverage70–80% of the photo
Background ColorPlain white or light-colored
PrintableYes — on matte photo-quality paper
Digital Photo Size826 × 1062 pixels at 600 DPI
ColorColor only
RecencyTaken within the last 6 months
Number of Photos Required2 photos (one endorsed by certifier)

Samoa Passport Photo Size Diagram

Samoa Passport Photo Size Diagram - 35x45 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 top of hair should be approximately 34.5 mm, with about 3 mm of space above the head.
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 Samoa Passport Photo Requirements

The Government of Samoa has specific requirements for passport photos. Below is a comprehensive guide.

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, with no blurriness
  • No digital alterations or enhancements
  • 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 top of hair): approximately 34.5 mm
  • Printed on matte photo-quality paper
  • You need 2 identical photos

Pose and Expression

  • Face the camera directly — head not tilted or turned
  • Maintain a neutral facial expression with your mouth closed
  • Both eyes must be open and clearly visible
  • Keep your mouth closed — no smiling
  • Your shoulders must be visible in the photo
  • Both ears or both edges of your face should be visible

Background

  • Use a plain white or light-colored background
  • No patterns, textures, or objects visible
  • No shadows on your face or behind your head

Glasses

Glasses are NOT allowed. You must remove all eyeglasses, sunglasses, and tinted glasses before the photo is taken.

Head Coverings and Hats

  • No hats or head coverings, except for religious reasons
  • If worn for religious reasons, your face must be fully visible from chin to forehead
  • Hair must not cover your eyes or eyebrows

Clothing

  • Wear normal everyday clothing
  • Do not wear uniforms
  • Avoid wearing white tops that blend with the background

Certifier Endorsement

Important: One photograph must be endorsed on the back by your certifier (the person who completes Section B of the application form) with: "This is a true likeness of [applicant's name]" and their signature.

Source: Government of Samoa — Passport Services

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How to Take a Samoa Passport Photo at Home

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

1

Use a Smartphone or Digital Camera

Any modern smartphone camera is capable of taking a passport-quality photo. Make sure the lens is clean and use the highest resolution. Place your phone on a tripod or ask someone to help — selfies are not suitable.

Taking passport photo with smartphone
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: Don't worry if your background isn't white. Our AI tool will automatically replace it.
Proper lighting setup
3

Dress Appropriately

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

Appropriate attire
4

Pose Correctly

Stand about 1.2 meters in front of the camera. Keep your shoulders relaxed, head level, and face forward. Your shoulders should be visible.

Correct posing
5

Maintain a Neutral Expression

Keep your face relaxed. Both eyes open, mouth closed. No smiling or frowning.

Neutral facial expression

Good and Bad Examples of Samoa Passport Photos

Good and bad examples

Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable passport photos

Frequently Asked Questions

What size is a Samoa passport photo?

A Samoa passport photo must be 35×45 mm (3.5×4.5 cm). Your face should cover 70–80% of the photo, with the head height approximately 34.5 mm.

Can I wear glasses?

No. Glasses are not allowed. You must remove all eyeglasses, sunglasses, and tinted glasses.

What background is required?

A plain white or light-colored background with no shadows, patterns, or objects. Our tool will automatically replace your background with white.

How many photos do I need?

You need 2 identical photos. One must be endorsed on the back by your certifier.

Can I take my Samoa passport photo with my phone?

Yes! Simply upload it to PassportPhoto.help and our AI will handle the rest.

Can I smile?

No. You must maintain a neutral facial expression with your mouth closed and both eyes open.

How recent must my photo be?

Your passport photo must have been taken within the last 6 months.

What happens if my photo is rejected?

Your application will be delayed. Using PassportPhoto.help ensures your photo meets all requirements before submission.