Tanzania Passport Photo Requirements 2026
Getting your passport photo right is essential. Incorrect photos are one of the most common reasons for passport and visa application delays. This guide covers the exact specifications for Tanzania e-passport photos, visa photos, and tips for getting accepted photos.
Key Requirement: Tanzania e-passport photos must be 45mm x 35mm with a white background. Photos must be taken within the last 6 months and show a clear, front-facing view of your face.
Photo Specifications
| Specification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Size (printed) | 45mm height x 35mm width |
| Digital Size | 600 x 600 pixels (minimum) for online applications |
| File Format (digital) | JPEG, maximum 240KB |
| Background | Plain white or off-white, no patterns or shadows |
| Face Size | Face should occupy 70-80% of the photo frame |
| Head Position | Straight, facing camera directly, not tilted |
| Expression | Neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open |
| Eyes | Both eyes open and clearly visible, no red-eye |
| Glasses | Remove glasses for the photo (new requirement for biometric passports) |
| Recency | Taken within the last 6 months |
| Quality | Sharp focus, proper exposure, no blur or pixelation |
| Quantity | 4 identical photos (passport application), 2 for visa |
What Is Accepted
Acceptable
- Plain white background
- Neutral facial expression
- Both ears visible (where possible)
- Natural skin tones
- Religious head coverings (face must still be fully visible from forehead to chin)
- Head scarves for women (forehead and chin must be visible)
Not Acceptable
- Coloured or patterned backgrounds
- Sunglasses or tinted glasses
- Hats, caps, or non-religious head coverings
- Smiling, frowning, or exaggerated expressions
- Selfies or phone camera photos
- Filters, retouching, or digital alterations
- Uniforms (military, police, etc.)
- Looking away from the camera
Children and Infant Photos
Children and infants need their own passport photos following the same specifications, with some allowances:
- Newborns to 1 year: Baby should be photographed lying on a white sheet, face looking at the camera. Eyes should be open. It is acceptable if the mouth is slightly open. A parent's hand supporting the baby's head is not acceptable in the photo.
- 1-5 years: Sit the child in front of a white background. No toys, dummies, or other objects visible. Adult should stand behind the camera to get the child's attention.
- 6+ years: Same requirements as adults. No school uniforms.
Tip: Take multiple photos and select the best one. Children's photos are the most commonly rejected.
Where to Get Passport Photos
In Dar es Salaam
- Immigration Department: Photo booths available at the main passport office in Kurasini. Most reliable for correct specifications.
- Professional Studios: Many photo studios near the Immigration Department and in the city centre offer passport photos. Cost: TZS 3,000-10,000 for a set of 4.
- Post Offices: Some larger post offices offer passport photo services.
At Embassies Abroad
- Some Tanzania embassies have photo facilities or can direct you to nearby studios
- In most countries, passport photos can be taken at pharmacies (Boots, CVS, Walgreens), post offices, or dedicated photo shops
- Specify "international passport photo, 45x35mm, white background" to ensure correct size
Digital / Online Options
- Online passport photo services can format your selfie to the correct specifications
- Print at home or at a photo kiosk on glossy photo paper
- Ensure the print quality is high (no ink smudges or faded colours)
Visa Photo Requirements by Country
Different countries have slightly different photo requirements for visa applications. Here are common ones Tanzanians encounter:
| Country/Region | Size | Background | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tanzania (passport) | 45x35mm | White | 4 photos needed |
| Schengen (Europe) | 45x35mm | White/light grey | 2 photos, face 32-36mm |
| United Kingdom | 45x35mm | White/light grey | 2 photos |
| United States | 51x51mm (2"x2") | White | Digital upload required |
| Canada | 50x70mm | White | Larger format, 2 photos |
| India | 51x51mm | White | Online upload for e-Visa |
| China | 48x33mm | White | No glasses, ears visible |
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Religious head coverings including hijab are permitted in Tanzania passport photos. However, your full face from forehead to chin must be clearly visible. The head covering should not cast shadows on your face. Niqab or face veils that cover any part of the face are not accepted.
No. For biometric e-passports, Tanzania requires that glasses be removed for the photo. This applies even to prescription glasses. The biometric scanning technology works better without glasses. This aligns with international ICAO standards.
Four identical passport photos for a new passport application or renewal. For visa applications, typically two photos are required. Always bring extras in case any are rejected.
While technically possible, selfies and phone photos are often rejected due to incorrect size, poor lighting, wrong background, or shadows. Professional studios produce the best results. If taking your own, use a tripod, white wall background, natural lighting from the front, and print on glossy photo paper.
Photos must be taken within the last 6 months. The photo must accurately represent your current appearance. If you have significantly changed your appearance (hairstyle, weight, facial hair), take a new photo even if your existing photos are recent.
Quick Specs
- Size: 45mm x 35mm
- Background: White
- Glasses: Not allowed
- Quantity: 4 (passport), 2 (visa)
- Recency: Within 6 months
- Cost: TZS 3,000-10,000