Ghana Passport Photo Requirements 2026
Your passport photo must meet specific requirements to be accepted. Incorrect photos are one of the most common reasons for application delays. Follow this guide to get it right first time.
Photo Specifications
| Size (printed) | 35mm x 45mm (standard passport size) |
| Digital format | JPEG or PDF |
| Background | Plain white background only |
| Resolution | Minimum 600 x 600 pixels for digital upload |
| File size | Maximum 5MB for online upload |
| Recency | Taken within the last 6 months |
| Colour | Full colour (not black and white) |
| Quantity needed | 4 photos for embassy applications; 1 digital for online |
Photo Requirements Checklist
Face & Head Position
- Full face visible, looking directly at the camera
- Neutral expression (no smiling, mouth closed)
- Both eyes open and clearly visible
- Forehead fully visible (no hair covering it)
- Both ears visible
- Head centred in the frame
- Face should occupy 70-80% of the photograph
Clothing & Accessories
- No eyeglasses (glasses must be removed for the photo)
- No large earrings or decorative jewellery
- No hats or head coverings (except for religious reasons, but face must remain fully visible)
- No uniforms (wear plain civilian clothing)
- Avoid white clothing (blends with background)
Technical Quality
- Sharp focus, no blurring
- Even lighting, no shadows on face or background
- No red-eye
- No digital alterations or filters
- Printed on high-quality photo paper (for physical prints)
Digital Photo for Online Applications
When applying online through passport.mfa.gov.gh, you need to upload a digital photo:
- Format: JPEG (.jpg) or PDF
- Minimum resolution: 600 x 600 pixels
- Maximum file size: 5MB
- White background only
- Must be a recent photo (within 6 months)
Tip: Many pharmacies and photo shops offer passport photo services that include both printed and digital copies. Ask for the digital file on a USB or by email.
Photos for Children
Child passport photos follow the same specifications but with some allowances:
- Babies and infants: eyes should be open, mouth closed
- No toys, dummies/pacifiers, or other objects in the photo
- No other people (parent hands, etc.) should be visible
- For very young babies, they can be photographed lying on a white sheet
- The child must be the only person in the photo
Frequently Asked Questions
Head coverings worn for religious reasons are permitted, provided your full face (from hairline to chin, both ears) remains clearly visible. The covering must not cast shadows on your face.
While technically possible if it meets all specifications, professional passport photos are strongly recommended. Selfies often have incorrect lighting, background, or dimensions that will cause rejection.
If your photo does not meet requirements, your application will be delayed until you provide a compliant photo. For online applications, the system may reject your upload immediately. For in-person submissions, the embassy will ask you to return with new photos.