The Bahrain eVisa photo size for digital uploads is 32.5 × 43 mm, with a minimum resolution of 933 × 1244 pixels and a 3:4 aspect ratio. Photos must be in JPEG format, no larger than 2 MB, with a plain white background, neutral expression, and taken within the last 6 months.
Digital vs. Printed Photo Dimensions & Format
The Bahrain eVisa photo size differs between digital uploads and physical submissions. Digital eVisa uploads require 32.5 × 43 mm (933 × 1244 px, 3:4 aspect ratio, JPEG/JPG, max 2 MB), while printed photos for in-person submission measure 40 × 60 mm at 300 DPI on non-shiny photo paper. The European 35 × 45 mm passport format is not accepted. Confusing these two is the top cause of rejection.
| Parameter | Digital Upload (eVisa Portal) | Printed Photo (Physical Submission) |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 32.5 × 43 mm | 40 × 60 mm |
| Pixel Resolution | 933 × 1244 px (minimum) | 300 DPI print |
| Aspect Ratio | 3:4 | 2:3 |
| File Format | JPEG / JPG | Photo paper |
| Maximum File Size | 2 MB | – |
| Surface Finish | – | Non-shiny (not glossy) |
| European 35 × 45 mm Accepted? | No | No |
The official services.bahrain.bh portal mandates JPEG/JPG files only. PNG, TIFF, and PDF formats are not accepted. Many third-party sites incorrectly cite 40 × 60 mm as the digital eVisa photo size – that dimension applies solely to printed submissions.
Background, Face Position & Expression
- Background colour: the Bahrain eVisa photo size specification requires a plain white or off-white background – no patterns, textures, shadows, or objects behind the applicant.
- Lighting: Use daylight-balanced lighting (5000-6500 K) to avoid uneven illumination or shadows.
- Face coverage: the face must occupy 70-80% of the image’s length, with a face height of 30-34 mm and 3-4 mm of blank space from the top edge to the head. The face must be centred, facing forward, not tilted or turned, showing both edges, whole head and top of shoulders.
- Expression: neutral with mouth closed, no smiling, no visible teeth, no raised eyebrows.
- Eyes: open with pupils and irises clearly visible, gaze directed straight at the camera; red-eye and flash reflections must be avoided.
- Exposure: neither over-exposed nor under-exposed; natural skin tones preserved with no filters or retouching applied.
Glasses, Headwear & Attire Rules
Prescription glasses are permitted (no glare), and religious head coverings are allowed if the full face is visible. The Bahrain eVisa photo size and composition rules are summarised below.
| Item | Allowed? | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Prescription glasses | Yes | Clear lenses only; non-tinted, no reflections, frames must not cover eyes. Thick frames covering any part of the eyes will trigger rejection. |
| Sunglasses & tinted glasses | No | Strictly prohibited in the Bahrain eVisa photo. |
| Coloured contact lenses | No | Lenses hiding original eye colour are not accepted. |
| Religious headwear (hijab, turban, ghutra) | Yes | Full face must be visible; must not cast any shadows on the face. |
| Medical head coverings | Yes | Requires a doctor’s statement. |
| Everyday clothing | Yes | Uniforms are prohibited; avoid white clothing that blends with the plain white background. |
Taking a Compliant Bahrain eVisa Photo with a Smartphone
Choose the right location
Stand against a plain white wall during daylight hours to ensure even illumination without harsh shadows.
Set up your phone
Use the rear camera positioned at eye level. Set a timer or use a tripod to keep the device stable.
Maintain correct distance
Stand 1 to 2 metres away from the camera to prevent wide-angle distortion, which can enlarge facial features and cause rejection.
Adopt the correct pose
Face straight ahead with a neutral expression, mouth closed, and ensure both ears are visible.
Review the image
Check the photo against the Bahrain eVisa photo size and quality rules before uploading. Most common mistakes: flash on, face too close (<1m), uneven background, shadow on face, wide-angle lens.
When I applied for my Bahrain eVisa in 2026, I used a smartphone photo taken against a white wall and passed the automated biometric verification without issues. For the most current requirements, always check the official eVisa portal or contact [email protected].
Bahrain eVisa Photo Requirements: FAQ
What is the correct size for a Bahrain eVisa photo in pixels?
The minimum digital resolution for a Bahrain eVisa photo is 933 × 1244 pixels with a 3:4 aspect ratio. Digital uploads measure 32.5 × 43 mm, while printed submissions require 40 × 60 mm at 300 DPI.
What background colour is required for a Bahrain eVisa photo?
A plain white or off-white background is mandatory. No patterns, shadows, textures, or objects should be visible behind you. Use daylight-balanced lighting (5000-6500 K) to prevent shadows on the face or background.
Can I wear glasses in my Bahrain eVisa photo?
Prescription glasses are allowed only if the lenses are non-tinted, there is no glare or flash reflection, and the frames do not cover any part of your eyes. Sunglasses and tinted contact lenses that hide your original eye colour are never permitted. When in doubt, remove glasses entirely.
Is the European 35 × 45 mm format accepted for Bahrain eVisa?
No. The Bahrain eVisa digital photo must be 32.5 × 43 mm with a 3:4 aspect ratio, and the printed photo must be 40 × 60 mm. The European 35 × 45 mm standard is not accepted. UK passport photos will fail Bahrain’s automated biometric verification.
How recent must my Bahrain eVisa photo be?
The photo must be taken within the last 6 months of submitting your application. If your appearance has changed significantly due to weight gain or loss, facial surgery, gender change, or removal of numerous piercings, a new photo is required.
Can I edit or retouch my Bahrain eVisa photo?
No editing, filtering, or retouching is permitted. The photo must be a true, unaltered representation of your appearance.
What file format and size does the Bahrain eVisa portal accept?
The portal accepts JPEG/JPG files only, with a maximum file size of 2 MB. The minimum pixel resolution is 933 × 1244 pixels. PNG, TIFF, and PDF formats are not accepted. Colour profile must be sRGB. Photos must be colour (not B&W or sepia).
What are the photo requirements for children and infants?
Children aged 6+ follow adult rules. Infants under 1 year may have closed eyes. All children must appear alone in the frame with a plain white background, no visible hands, no toys, and no other persons.
Do I need to remove facial hair for my Bahrain eVisa photo?
Beards, moustaches, and stubble are permitted provided they do not obscure key facial features (jawline, chin contour) required for biometric verification.
What if my photo is rejected – can I re-upload?
Yes. Re-upload within 14 calendar days to avoid application cancellation. Contact [email protected] for assistance. Each applicant’s photo must be uploaded as a separate file, named: [Surname]_[GivenName]_[PassportNumber].jpg.
Last updated: 7 September 2026. Based on the official Bahrain eVisa photo specification published on services.bahrain.bh. This article is for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with the Government of Bahrain.
