Applying for a Singapore passport or identity card requires meeting some conditions, including attaching a face photo. Understanding these rules can sometimes feel daunting for beginners. Whether you’re a tech-savvy millennial or a senior with minimal technology exposure, this beginner-friendly guide simplifies the process. Let’s get started!
Singapore Passport Photo Requirements
When applying for a Singapore passport or identity card, one of the critical steps is submitting a photo that meets specific requirements set by ICA:
- The photo must be a recent one, in color, and taken against a white background.
- It should be a frontal shot of your face, with eyes open and clearly visible.
- When it comes to clothing, you should wear regular street clothes rather than uniforms.
- If you have glasses, ensure that they do not create reflections or obscure your eyes.
- The size of the photograph should be 35mm wide by 45mm high (or 400 by 514 pixels in the case of a digital photo), without any border.
- If you wear headgear for religious reasons, such as a hijab or turban, it is allowed, provided your face is fully visible from the chin to the forehead.
- When capturing your passport photo, you should maintain a neutral facial expression. This means your mouth should be closed, and your eyes should be open.
It’s crucial to remember that the photograph must not be altered or enhanced in any way, including modification of facial features or usage of editing software.
Searching for the Right App
To simplify the process of taking the perfect passport photo, there are several mobile apps available for download. They are designed to help you capture a photograph that meets all the requirements. The Android Play Store and Apple App Store have a wide range of applications you can choose from. To find the most suitable one, you can use keywords such as ‘Singapore Passport’, ‘Singapore IC’, and ‘Photo’. These search words will narrow down your options to apps specifically designed for Singapore passport and identity card applications.
Recommended Mobile Apps for Passport Photos
IC Photo Singapore
One of the apps suggested by customers is ‘IC Photo Singapore’. This app is tailored for taking photographs for Singapore passport and identity card applications. It has features that allow you to take photos that fit the dimensions and meet all other ICA requirements. Remember, while this app is recommended based on customer feedback, it’s not officially endorsed by ICA.
Passport Size Photo Maker
Another app that comes highly advised by users is ‘Passport Size Photo Maker’. This app provides features that comply with ICA’s photo guidelines, ensuring your passport or identity card photo meets all the necessary conditions. However, it’s essential to note that like ‘IC Photo Singapore’, this app is not confirmed by ICA.
Passport Photo ID Maker Studio
‘Passport Photo ID Maker Studio – ID Photo Editor’ is another app that has received positive feedback from users. It will help you take the perfect photo. Besides, it includes an editing studio where you can resize your photograph to the required dimensions. However, remember not to alter the photo in any way as per ICA guidelines. This app is not endorsed by ICA, but many customers have found it helpful.
Common Mistakes to Avoid while Taking a Passport Photo
To ensure your passport photo is accepted without issues, avoid the following common mistakes:
- Selfies: Do not take selfies for your passport photo. It is recommended to ask someone else to take the photo for you, as this will ensure better framing and lighting.
- Inappropriate Backgrounds: Avoid taking photos in environments with busy backgrounds or poor lighting. A plain white wall or backdrop is ideal.
- Improper Lighting: Ensure that the lighting is even and bright, avoiding harsh shadows on your face.
- Alterations: Do not digitally alter your photo to enhance features or change the background. The image must be a true representation of your appearance.
Summary
ICA’s photo guidelines are the standards that your passport or identity card photo must meet. While there are several mobile apps available that can help you take a suitable photograph for your Singaporean passport or identity card application, it’s important to understand that ICA does not endorse any specific apps. These applications are suggested based on customer feedback and are intended to simplify the process for you. However, the ultimate responsibility of ensuring the photo meets all the requirements lies with you.
18 comments
Hi there, I’m in the process of applying for a Singapore passport and I’m unsure about the specific photo requirements. Could someone please clarify what size and format the passport photos should be? Many thanks!
Hello! The Singapore passport photo requirements are for a 45mm x 35mm size in a JPEG format with a resolution of at least 600 dpi.
Hello, I’m planning to renew my Singapore passport and I’d like to know if there have been any recent changes to the passport photo requirements. I’ve heard that the specifications have changed, but I can’t find any definitive information online. Can anyone help?
Hello, I’d be happy to help answer your question. According to the latest information from the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) in Singapore, there have been no significant changes to the passport photo requirements as of now. If you have any further inquiries, feel free to ask.
Hi, I’m applying for a Singapore passport for the first time and I’d like to know what the photo requirements are in terms of clothing. I’ve heard that certain items are not allowed. Can someone please clarify?
Hello, the Singapore passport photo requirements state that applicants should wear simple, formal attire without logos or large prints. Facial expressions should be neutral and eyes open without squinting. Avoid wearing headgear unless for religious reasons, and remove glasses if not essential for vision.
Hello, I’m in the process of renewing my Singapore passport and I’d like to know if there are any specifications regarding the background of the passport photo. I’ve heard that the background must be white, but I’d like to confirm this. Can anyone help?
Hello, yes, the background of a Singapore passport photo must be white. There should be no shadows or patterns.
Hi, I’m planning to apply for a Singapore passport and I’d like to know if there are any specific requirements for the passport photo in terms of lighting and focus. I’d like to ensure that my photo meets all the necessary criteria before I submit my application. Can someone please help?
Hello, the Singapore passport photo requirements state that the image must be clear and in focus with good lighting. Ensure your photo meets these criteria before submission.
Hello, I’m in the process of renewing my Singapore passport and I’d like to know if there are any specific requirements for the passport photo in terms of head position and facial expression. I’d like to ensure that my photo meets all the necessary criteria before I submit my application. Can anyone help?
Hello, the Singapore passport photo requirements state that your head should be straight and face the camera directly with a neutral facial expression. Eyes should be open and looking directly at the camera.
Hi, I’m planning to apply for a Singapore passport and I’d like to know if there are any specific requirements for the passport photo in terms of eye glasses or head coverings. I wear glasses and I’d like to know if I need to remove them for the photo or if there are any specifications regarding head coverings. Can someone please help?
Hello, the Singapore passport photo requirements state that eyeglasses should not be worn for the photo. Regarding head coverings, they are only allowed if they are for religious or medical reasons and must not obscure any part of the face.
Hello, I’m in the process of renewing my Singapore passport and I’d like to know if there are any specific requirements for the passport photo in terms of resolution and file size. I’d like to ensure that my photo meets all the necessary criteria before I submit my application. Can anyone help?
Hello, the Singapore Immigration and Checkpoints Authority recommends a passport photo with a minimum resolution of 600 dpi and a file size between 10 KB and 3 MB in JPEG format. Please ensure your photo meets these requirements before submitting your application.
Hi, I’m planning to apply for a Singapore passport and I’d like to know if there are any specific requirements for the passport photo in terms of retouching or editing. Can someone please help?
Hello, according to the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) of Singapore, passport photos should not be excessively retouched or edited. Minimal adjustments to brightness, contrast, and color balance are allowed. However, removing blemishes, scars, or wrinkles to an extent that alters the original appearance is not permitted.