Ethiopia eVisa Photo Requirements - Professional passport photo specifications

Ethiopia eVisa Photo Requirements

Complete guide to photo specifications for your Ethiopia eVisa application

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Understanding Ethiopia eVisa Photo Requirements

Essential specifications to ensure your application is approved

When applying for an Ethiopia eVisa, submitting a photograph that meets the official requirements is crucial for the success of your application. A photo that doesn't comply with the specified standards can lead to delays or even rejection of your visa application.

The Ethiopian immigration authorities have established specific guidelines for passport-sized photographs submitted with eVisa applications. These requirements ensure that the photo can be used for identification purposes and meets international standards for travel documents.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through all the necessary specifications, from background color to facial expression, helping you prepare a compliant photograph for your Ethiopia eVisa application.

Basic Photo Specifications

Key requirements for your Ethiopia eVisa photograph

Photo Size

2x2 inches (51x51 mm) - Standard passport photo dimensions required for all eVisa applications.

Background Color

White or light-colored background with no patterns, shadows, or other objects visible.

Photo Recency

Taken within last 6 months to accurately represent your current appearance.

Color Format

Color photograph required - black and white photos are not accepted for eVisa applications.

Detailed Photo Requirements

Complete specifications for a compliant eVisa photograph

Facial Expression & Position

Head Position and Expression

Your photograph must show a neutral facial expression with both eyes open and looking directly at the camera.

  • Face must be centered in the frame
  • Head should be straight, not tilted
  • Mouth closed with neutral expression
  • Both eyes clearly visible and open
  • No smiling or frowning
  • Face must occupy 70-80% of the photo

The photo should clearly show your face from the top of your head to the top of your shoulders, with your full face visible from ear to ear.

Technical Specifications

Digital Photo Requirements

When uploading your photo for the online eVisa application, ensure it meets these digital specifications:

  • File format: JPEG or PNG
  • File size: Maximum 500 KB
  • Resolution: Minimum 600 x 600 pixels
  • Quality: High resolution, no pixelation
  • Focus: Sharp and clear, not blurry
  • Lighting: Even, no shadows on face

The digital photo must be a scanned version of a physical passport photo or taken with a high-quality digital camera.

Common Photo Mistakes to Avoid

Ensure your photo is not rejected by avoiding these common errors

Issue Why It's Rejected Correct Approach
Wearing Glasses Reflections and glare can obscure eyes Remove glasses unless medically required; if required, ensure no glare
Head Coverings Face must be fully visible for identification Remove hats and caps; religious headwear allowed if face is visible
Shadows on Face Poor lighting affects facial recognition Use even, natural lighting with no shadows
Red Eye Effect Indicates poor photo quality Use proper lighting and camera settings to avoid red eye
Filters or Editing Photo must represent natural appearance No filters, beauty effects, or digital alterations
Other People Visible Only applicant should appear in photo Ensure background is clear with no other people

Religious and Medical Exceptions

Ethiopia's eVisa system recognizes that some applicants may have religious or medical reasons for certain photo requirements. However, specific guidelines must still be followed:

Religious Head Coverings

If you wear a head covering for religious purposes, you may keep it on in your photo, provided that:

  • Your full face is visible from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead
  • Both ears are visible
  • The head covering does not cast shadows on your face
  • Your facial features are clearly identifiable

Medical Eyewear

If you must wear glasses for medical reasons:

  • Ensure there is no glare on the lenses
  • Your eyes must be clearly visible through the lenses
  • Frames should not cover any part of your eyes
  • Consider using non-reflective lenses for the photo

For any special circumstances, it's recommended to contact the eVisa support team before submitting your application to ensure your photo will be accepted.

Photo Quality Examples

Understanding acceptable vs. unacceptable photos

Correct Photo
Example of correct Ethiopia eVisa passport photo

Acceptable Photo

  • βœ“ White background
  • βœ“ Neutral expression
  • βœ“ Face centered
  • βœ“ Good lighting
  • βœ“ High quality
Poor Lighting
Example of poor lighting in passport photo

Unacceptable - Shadows

  • βœ— Shadows on face
  • βœ— Uneven lighting
  • βœ— Dark background
  • βœ— Poor contrast
Incorrect Position
Example of incorrect head position in passport photo

Unacceptable - Position

  • βœ— Head tilted
  • βœ— Not centered
  • βœ— Face too small
  • βœ— Looking away

Where to Get Your eVisa Photo

Options for obtaining a compliant passport photograph

Professional Photo Services

The most reliable option is to visit a professional photography studio or passport photo service:

  • Photo studios: Experienced in passport photo requirements
  • Pharmacy chains: Many offer passport photo services
  • Post offices: Often provide passport photo facilities
  • Print shops: Can take and print photos to specifications

Professional services typically cost between $10-$20 and ensure your photo meets all requirements. Inform them you need a photo for an Ethiopia eVisa application.

After obtaining your physical photo, you'll need to scan it at high resolution (minimum 600 x 600 pixels) for upload to the online application form.

DIY Photo at Home

You can take your own photo at home if you have the right equipment and setup:

  • Camera: High-quality digital camera or smartphone
  • Background: Plain white or light-colored wall
  • Lighting: Natural daylight or soft, even artificial light
  • Tripod: To keep camera steady and at eye level
  • Timer: Use camera timer or remote shutter

Tips for taking your own photo:

  • Position yourself 1-2 meters from the background
  • Ensure even lighting with no shadows on your face
  • Camera should be at eye level
  • Take multiple photos and select the best one
  • Use photo editing software only to crop and adjust size

Uploading Your Photo to the eVisa Application

Step-by-step guide to submitting your photograph

Step 1: Prepare File

Before uploading, ensure your photo file meets the digital requirements:

  • βœ“ Save as JPEG or PNG format
  • βœ“ Compress to under 500 KB if needed
  • βœ“ Verify resolution is at least 600x600 pixels
  • βœ“ Name file clearly (e.g., "passport_photo.jpg")

Use image editing software to resize or compress if necessary, but do not alter your appearance.

Step 2: Upload to Application

During the eVisa application process, you'll reach the document upload section:

  • βœ“ Click the "Upload Photo" button
  • βœ“ Select your prepared photo file
  • βœ“ Wait for upload confirmation
  • βœ“ Preview the uploaded image

The system will automatically check if your file meets the basic technical requirements.

Step 3: Verify & Submit

Before submitting your application, carefully verify your photo:

  • βœ“ Photo displays clearly in preview
  • βœ“ Face is centered and visible
  • βœ“ Background is plain and light
  • βœ“ No error messages appear

If you notice any issues, delete and re-upload a corrected photo before final submission.

Frequently Asked Questions About Photo Requirements

Common questions about Ethiopia eVisa photographs

Yes, you can use your passport photo for your Ethiopia eVisa application, provided it was taken within the last 6 months and meets all the specified requirements. The photo must accurately represent your current appearance. If your passport photo is older than 6 months or your appearance has changed significantly, you should take a new photo.

If your photo doesn't meet the requirements, your eVisa application may be delayed or rejected. You will typically receive an email notification explaining the issue. You may be asked to submit a new photo that complies with the specifications. To avoid delays, ensure your photo meets all requirements before submitting your application. Review the common rejection reasons to prevent issues.

Yes, you can wear makeup in your eVisa photo, but it should be natural and not excessive. The photo must accurately represent your everyday appearance. Avoid heavy makeup, dramatic colors, or anything that significantly alters your facial features. The goal is to ensure you can be easily identified when you arrive in Ethiopia.

Yes, children applying for an Ethiopia eVisa must submit photos that meet the same basic requirements as adults. However, immigration authorities understand that it can be challenging to get young children to maintain a neutral expression or keep their eyes open. The key requirements are that the child's face is clearly visible, centered, and the photo is recent. For infants, ensure no other person is visible in the photo, even if someone is holding the baby.

Minor editing to remove red eye or adjust brightness is generally acceptable, but you should not alter your appearance in any way. Do not use filters, beauty effects, or editing tools that change your facial features, skin tone, or overall appearance. The photo must be a true representation of how you look. Excessive editing can result in application rejection.

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Additional Requirements for Your eVisa Application

Other important documents and information you'll need

Passport Requirements

In addition to your photograph, you'll need to provide a scan of your passport. Learn about the passport validity requirements and specifications for Ethiopia eVisa applications.

  • Minimum 6 months validity required
  • At least 2 blank pages needed
  • Clear, readable passport scan
  • Biographical page must be visible
View Passport Requirements

Complete Document Checklist

Your photo is just one of several required documents for your Ethiopia eVisa application. Make sure you have everything ready before starting your application.

  • Valid passport scan
  • Passport-sized photograph
  • Travel itinerary details
  • Payment method for visa fees
Complete Document List

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