When planning a trip to Djibouti, it’s crucial to ensure that you have all the necessary documentation in order. Among the most important documents you’ll need are a valid passport and, depending on the purpose of your trip, a visa. Both of these documents require a passport or visa photo that adheres to Djibouti’s specific guidelines.
Djibouti Passport and Visa Photo Background and Lighting Requirements
Background and lighting requirements can vary depending on the type of Djibouti eVisa you are applying for and the country of application. Here are some general guidelines:
- Background Requirements: Your photo should have a plain white or light-colored background, with no shadows or patterns.
- Lighting Requirements: Ensure your face is well-lit, with no shadows or glare. Avoid wearing tinted glasses that may cause reflections.
- Visa Application Form: Some embassies may require a completed visa application form along with your photo, which could have specific size and background color requirements.
- Additional Requirements: Depending on the visa type, you may need a full-face view, a neutral expression, and no head coverings or accessories.
Facial Expression and Positioning in the Passport Photo
When taking a passport or visa photo for Djibouti, follow these tips to meet the country’s requirements:
- Neutral Expression: Keep your face relaxed with your mouth closed and eyes looking directly at the camera. Avoid smiling, frowning, or making any exaggerated expressions.
- Head Positioning: Your head should be centered and facing straight at the camera. Don’t tilt your head up, down, or to the side.
- Eye Contact: Your eyes must be visible, open, and directed straight at the camera.
- Glasses and Headwear: If you wear glasses, ensure there's no glare, and your face is fully visible. If you wear headwear for religious reasons, it can be worn, but your face must remain fully visible.
- Photo Background: The background should be plain white with no objects or people in the frame.
Clothing and Appearance in Djibouti Passport and Visa Photo
Clothing and appearance play an important role in your Djibouti visa application. Here are some tips:
- Dress Conservatively: Wear modest clothing, like long-sleeved shirts and full-length pants or skirts. Avoid revealing or provocative clothing.
- Be Well-Groomed: Ensure your hair is neat, and you are clean-shaven (if applicable). Keep makeup and jewelry minimal.
- Follow Cultural Norms: Research local dress codes, especially if you're traveling for business or religious purposes, to avoid offending anyone.
- Avoid Hats or Headscarves: Unless required for religious reasons, avoid wearing hats or headscarves in your photo or during your interview.
- Present a Professional Appearance: If applying for a work or student visa, wear business attire or a school uniform, and ensure you look tidy and professional.
Djibouti Passport and Visa Photo Size and Format
Here are the key requirements for Djibouti passport and visa photos:
- Photo Size: The photo should measure 4.5cm x 3.5cm (1.77 inches x 1.38 inches).
- Photo Quality: The photo must be clear and high resolution, with no pixelation or distortion. Avoid filters or editing.
- Background Color: The background should be plain white, with no objects or people visible.
- File Format: Submit the photo in JPEG format, with a file size of no more than 1MB.
- Other Requirements: Follow specific guidelines for the size of your head and face, and the positioning within the frame.
- Printing: Print the photo on high-quality photo paper to maintain color and resolution accuracy.
Importance of Proper Documentation for Travel to Djibouti
Having the correct travel documents helps ensure a smooth journey. Passports and visas confirm your identity and legal right to enter a country. Missing or incorrect documents can cause delays or denial of entry, so always check entry requirements and keep your documents valid and up to date.
Rules and Requirements for Babies, Infants, and Newborn Passport and Visa Photos
Here are the key requirements for passport or visa photos for babies, infants, or newborns traveling to Djibouti:
- Positioning: If the infant can't sit up, photograph them lying on their back with their head supported and face visible.
- Background: The background should be white, with no objects or people visible.
- Facial Expression: The infant's eyes should be open and looking toward the camera. Avoid photos with closed eyes or eyes looking away.
- Clothing: Dress the infant in simple clothing without hats or head coverings. Avoid patterned clothes that may distract from the face.
- Size: The photo size should be the same as for adults: 4.5cm x 3.5cm (1.77 inches x 1.38 inches).
- Additional Requirements: Check for any specific rules about the infant's head and face size within the photo.
Other Considerations for Passport and Visa Applications
Here are a few other important factors to consider:
- Application Forms: Carefully fill out the application forms for your passport or visa. Mistakes or missing information could cause delays or rejection.
- Supporting Documents: You may need to provide additional documents like proof of identity, residency, or employment. Check the requirements and submit them with your application.
- Processing Time: Processing times for Djibouti passports and visas vary, so submit your application early. Check the current processing times and plan accordingly.
- Consular Fees: Be aware of any fees for your passport or visa. Review the fees for your specific application and ensure you have enough funds.
- Renewals and Expirations: Keep track of your passport or visa expiration date and renew it in advance. If you lose them while traveling, report it immediately and replace them.
Where to Get the Djibouti Passport and Visa Photos
Passport and visa photos can typically be obtained at various places such as:
- Local pharmacies: Many offer passport and visa photo services.
- Photo studios: Professional studios can take compliant passport and visa photos.
- Post offices: Some have photo booths for passport-sized photos.
- Print & copy shops: Stores like FedEx, UPS, or Staples may provide photo services.
- Online services: Upload a photo and get it formatted and printed correctly.
Always ensure the photo meets official requirements for size, background, and composition, as rules may vary by country.
Can You Use the Same Photo for a Djibouti Passport and Visa?
Yes, the same photo can be used for both a Djibouti passport and visa if it was taken within the last six months and meets all photo requirements. e-Visas require a digital photo, while passports need a printed copy. Always check for any visa-specific updates to avoid delays.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Djibouti Passport and Visa Photos
When applying for a Djibouti passport or visa, submitting a correct photo is crucial to avoid delays or rejection. Below are common mistakes to watch out for to ensure your application is accepted smoothly.
|
Mistake |
Description |
|
Incorrect Photo Size |
The required size is 4.5 cm x 3.5 cm—using a different size may lead to rejection. |
|
Wrong Background Color |
The background must be plain white with no patterns, shadows, or objects. |
|
Facial Expression Issues |
A neutral expression is required—no smiling, frowning, or tilting your head. |
|
Poor Lighting & Shadows |
Uneven lighting, glare, or dark shadows on the face can make the photo unacceptable. |
|
Wearing Unapproved Accessories |
Avoid glasses with glare, hats, or head coverings (unless for religious reasons). |
|
Low-Quality or Blurry Images |
Photos must be high resolution, clear, and free from pixelation or distortion. |
|
Old or Altered Photos |
The photo must be recent (taken within the last six months) and not edited, filtered, or retouched. |
|
Incorrect File Format (for e-Visas) |
If applying online, ensure your photo is in JPEG format and meets size restrictions. |
Differences Between Passport and Visa Photo Requirements in Djibouti
Djibouti passport and visa photos follow similar rules, including a 4.5 cm × 3.5 cm size, white background, and neutral expression. However, visa applications, especially e-Visas, may require a digital format, specific file size limits, or additional checks, while passports follow strict biometric standards. Always verify current requirements before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions
The photo for a Djibouti passport must be a color photo with a white background, taken within the last six months. The size of the photo should be 4.5 cm x 3.5 cm.
The photo for a Djibouti visa must be a color photo with a white background, taken within the last six months. The size of the photo should be 4 cm x 3 cm.
It is recommended to wear dark-colored clothing for the photo, preferably black or navy blue.
Yes, you can wear glasses in your passport/visa photo as long as your eyes are clearly visible and there is no glare on the lenses. However, it is recommended to remove glasses for the photo if possible.
No, you should not smile in your passport/visa photo. Your expression should be neutral and your mouth should be closed.
Yes, you can take your passport/visa photo at home as long as you have a white background and good lighting. You can use a smartphone or digital camera to take the photo.
Yes, you can crop the photo to the correct size using photo editing software or an online tool. However, the original photo must meet all other requirements, such as color, background, and lighting.
Content Disclaimer: While this information was last updated in January 2026, we strongly suggest confirming all travel details with the appropriate governmental agencies, embassies, and airlines.