Why ICA Requires Passport Photos – And How to Get Yours Right
- Abigail D.
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
Whether you're applying for Permanent Residency (PR), Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP), or Singapore Citizenship, one detail that you may overlook — is your passport-sized photograph.
This requirement may seem minor, but it plays a critical role in document issuance. In this article, we explain why ICA requires passport photos, how they’re used, and how to make sure your submission meets the technical standards.
Why Does ICA Require a Passport Photo?
The Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) of Singapore requires passport photos for a simple but essential reason: the image submitted will become part of your official identity record in Singapore.
This photo will be used for:
Your NRIC (National Registration Identity Card), if applying for PR or Citizenship
Your LTVP or LTVP+ card, if applying under a family tie or dependent route
Official documents issued post-approval
Because the image will appear on identity documents used in both public and digital services, it must meet ICA’s technical specifications and quality standards.
Who Needs to Submit a Passport Photo?
Applicants are required to submit a passport photo when applying for the following:
Permanent Residency (PR)
Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP / LTVP+)
Singapore Citizenship
If you're applying for Citizenship, your photo will be used for the eventual issuance of your Singapore Identity Card (Pink NRIC).
ICA Passport Photo Requirements (As of 2025)
ICA sets strict technical specifications for photos used in identity documents. These requirements apply across all application types (PR, LTVP, Citizenship).
Requirement | Details |
Size | 35mm wide by 45mm high |
Color | In color, with a white background only |
Recency | Taken within the last 3 months |
Clarity | Sharp, in focus, with high resolution |
Expression | Neutral facial expression, mouth closed, no smiling |
Glasses | Allowed, but must not produce glare or reflections |
Headwear | Only permitted for religious or medical reasons, and must not obscure facial features |
Framing | Face must be centered and take up 70–80% of the photo height |
Digital Format | Typically .JPEG, under 2MB, uploaded via ICA’s online platform |
Why These Requirements Matter
ICA’s photo requirements are not simply bureaucratic. They are aligned with biometric identity system standards.
The submitted image:
Must be suitable for facial recognition
Be readable by Singapore’s digital identity infrastructure
Appear on official identity cards and be valid for multiple years
Submitting a photo that does not meet requirements may delay processing or lead to a request for resubmission.
Common Mistakes That Cause Photo Rejection
Using a blue or grey background instead of white
Wearing headwear or heavy makeup that obscures features
Poor lighting or shadows behind the head
Smiling or showing teeth
Wearing tinted or reflective glasses
Uploading a low-resolution image from a phone camera
Submitting an image that is older than 3 months
Best Practices for Submitting the Right Photo
Take your photo at a professional photo studio familiar with ICA guidelines
If taking it yourself, use a high-resolution camera, plain white background, and natural lighting
Avoid shadows, harsh contrasts, and busy patterns in clothing
Do not use filters or digital enhancements—photos must reflect your true appearance
Check the file type and size before uploading to ICA’s e-service portal
What Happens If Your Photo Is Rejected?
The MyICA Portal has a software that will determine if your photo meets minimum requirements. If it does not pass this initial screening, you will not be able to submit your application.
Be decisive about the image you upload as the photograph submitted will be used on your issued card. It is in your interests to have your photograph properly taken.
Final Thoughts
Your passport photo is one of the first impressions you give to ICA. It becomes your official image in national records—and plays a role in biometric identity systems, card printing, and digital verification.
Whether you’re applying for PR, LTVP, or Singapore Citizenship, make sure your passport photo meets all of ICA’s requirements from the start.
Unsure If Your Photo Meets ICA Standards?
At Heritage Immigration, we help you check every part of your PR, LTVP, or Citizenship application—including ICA-compliant passport photos. We can review, guide, and prepare your submission so that it’s ready for smooth processing.
Book a consultation today:
Comments