Let me tell you that if you submit a passport photo with incorrect dimensions, background, or other specifications, your application will be denied. This causes unnecessary stress and wastes valuable time. Getting your Taiwan passport photo size right is crucial to avoid rejection and delays in your passport application process.
So in this comprehensive guide, Passport Maker Blog ‘ll cover everything you need to know about Taiwan passport photo size, including the exact dimensions, background requirements, clothing rules, and more. We’ll also discuss where to get your passport photo taken and how to take them at home, as well as common mistakes to avoid. Join us now!
The Basics of Taiwan Passport Photo Size
Take a quick look at the table of all Taiwan Passport photo requirements you need to follow. Then we go into each part in detail.
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Photo Size | 35mm (width) x 45mm (height) |
| Head Size (Chin to Crown) | 32mm – 36mm (70-80% of the photo height) |
| Background | Plain white background |
| Face Position | Head centered, facing directly at the camera |
| Eyes | Open and clearly visible, no hair covering them |
| Expression | Neutral expression, mouth closed |
| Glasses | Permitted if they don’t obscure eyes, minimize glare/reflections |
| Headgear | Not allowed unless for religious or medical reasons |
| Image Quality | High-resolution, printed on high-quality photo paper |
| Recency | Photo taken within the past 6 months |
Passport photo size
The required dimensions for a Taiwan passport photo are 45mm x 35mm (1.77 inches x 1.38 inches). This size is different from the US passport photo size.
So, remember to measure your passport photo in millimeters or inches to guarantee accuracy and consistency.
The passport photo should have an aspect ratio of 4:3, ensuring that the subject’s face is properly centered and proportioned within the frame.
| Measurement | Millimeters | Inches |
| Width | 35mm | 1.38″ |
| Height | 45mm | 1.77″ |
Technical Specifications for Taiwan Passport Photos
In addition to the size requirements, your Taiwan passport photos must meet several technical specifications including clarity, consistency, and adherence to international standards.
Firstly, the photo must be in color. Black and white images are not accepted. The background of the photo must be plain white. Make sure that the background is free of any shadows, patterns, or other objects. Those may obstruct or distract from the subject’s face.
Your head must be centered within the frame, facing directly at the camera with a neutral facial expression. This is a common requirement in all kinds of passport photos.
Open your eyes clearly with no hair obscuring the face.
All of these technical specifications help your passport photo accurately represent the individual and can be easily used for identification purposes.
Aesthetic Requirements
Beyond the technical aspects, Taiwan passport photos also have specific aesthetic requirements that must be met. These requirements respect an individual’s cultural and religious considerations while adhering to international standards for passport photos.
- Facial expression
Your facial expression should be neutral, with no smiling, frowning, or raised eyebrows. This helps you maintain a consistent and easily recognizable appearance.
- Glasses
Generally, you shouldn’t wear glasses in passport photos unless they are medically necessary. For medical reasons, you must provide the doctor’s note. There must be no glare or reflections that obscure the eyes.
- Clothing
You should wear plain and dark-colored in passport photos. Specific cultural attire, such as traditional clothing or accessories, is allowed as long as it does not obscure your face and violate other photo guidelines.
Religious headwear, such as hijabs, turbans, or yarmulkes, is allowed in passport photos if it does not obscure the face.
However, you must sign a statement to confirm that the headdress is worn daily for religious reasons.
These aesthetic guidelines ensure that the passport photo focuses on your face and minimizes any potential distractions or inconsistencies.
Digital Photo Specifications
Fortunately, Taiwan accepts digital photos for online passport applications. So many applicants opt to submit digital photos instead of traditional printed ones.
Digital passport photos must have a resolution of at least 600 dots per inch (dpi) to ensure sufficient clarity and detail. The image should be in JPEG format, which is widely compatible and maintains a good balance between image quality and file size.
Minor digital editing, such as adjusting brightness or contrast, is allowed to enhance the photo’s quality. However, you shouldn’t abuse it.
It is essential to strike a balance between optimizing the photo’s quality and maintaining its authenticity.
Who oversees your Taiwan passport photos?
The Bureau of Consular Affairs and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs handle legal requirements and documentation processes for Taiwan passport photos. They are responsible for enforcing photo standards and ensure that all passport applications are accompanied by compliant photos.
Government entities are so strict so be careful when you submit a photo. If they do not meet the guidelines, the application will be rejected.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure a smooth passport application process, it is crucial to avoid common mistakes when submitting your passport photo. One of the most frequent errors is submitting photos that are too old. Taiwan requires that passport photos be taken within the last six months to ensure an up-to-date representation of the applicant.
Using photos with incorrect dimensions or head size ratios is another common mistake that can lead to rejection. It is essential to carefully measure and crop the photo to meet the specified size requirements.
Inappropriate facial expressions, head tilts, or eye gaze directions can also result in photo rejection. Maintain a neutral expression, keep your head straight, and look directly at the camera.
Wearing prohibited clothing items or accessories, such as hats or sunglasses, can also cause issues. Lastly, choosing a background that is not plain white or has shadows or patterns can lead to photo rejection.
Taking a Taiwan Passport Photo at Home
Many applicants choose to take their own passport photos at home to save time and money. To ensure that your self-taken photo meets all the requirements, follow these steps:
- Find a plain white background, such as a wall or a sheet of white paper, and ensure adequate lighting to avoid shadows.
- Use a tripod or a stable surface to position the camera at eye level, approximately 1.5 meters away from the subject.
- Ensure that your face is centered within the frame, maintaining a neutral expression with eyes open and clearly visible.
- Take multiple photos and select the best one that meets all the requirements, including size, head position, and facial expression.
- Print the chosen photo on high-quality photo paper or save it as a JPEG file with a resolution of at least 600 dpi.
By following these steps and paying close attention to the requirements, you can take a suitable passport photo at home that will be accepted by the Taiwanese authorities.
Passport photos for infants and disable ones
While the general passport photo requirements apply to most applicants, there are some special considerations for certain groups. Infants and young children have slightly different photo requirements to accommodate their unique needs.
For example, infants may be allowed to have their eyes closed or their mouth open in the photo, as long as their face is clearly visible. In some cases, black and white photos may be acceptable for passport applications if they meet all other requirements.
This exception is rare and typically applies to specific circumstances, such as historical photos or photos from countries with limited color photography access.
Applicants with medical conditions that affect their appearance, such as facial disfigurements or disabilities, may need to provide a doctor’s note explaining their condition and any necessary accommodations for the photo.
International Standards and Comparisons:
Taiwan’s passport photo requirements align closely with the standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). It aims to harmonize passport specifications worldwide.
The ICAO establishes guidelines for passport photos to ensure consistency and compatibility across different countries. Most nations have similar specifications for passport photos, including size, background, and facial expression requirements.
You can refer to:
The standardization facilitates smooth international travel and helps border control authorities quickly and accurately identify individuals. However, minor variations may exist between countries, so it is essential to check the specific requirements of your destination country when traveling abroad.
By adhering to ICAO standards and international norms, Taiwan ensures that its passport photos are widely accepted and compatible with global travel requirements.
Application Process and Documentation:
To apply for a Taiwan passport, you must follow a specific process and provide the necessary documentation. Here are the steps involved:
- Obtain a passport photo that meets all the requirements outlined in this article.
- Fill out the passport application form, either online or in-person at a designated office.
- Gather the required documents, such as your ID card, household registration, and proof of citizenship.
- Submit the completed application form, passport photo, and required documents at a passport processing center.
- Pay the application fee and wait for processing, which typically takes 7-14 business days.
- It is crucial to ensure that all the information provided in the application is accurate and up-to-date. Any discrepancies or errors in the documentation can lead to delays or rejection of your passport application.
Professional Help: Where to Get Taiwan Passport Photos
For those who prefer professional assistance, there are several options for obtaining Taiwan passport photos.
Many photo studios in Taiwan specialize in taking passport photos and guarantee compliance with the official requirements. These studios have the necessary equipment, lighting, and expertise to ensure that your photo meets all the specifications.
In addition to photo studios, some pharmacies, post offices, and government offices also offer passport photo services. These locations may have dedicated photo booths or trained staff who can guide you through the process.
Online passport photo services like passportmaker.ai are another option, providing resources and guidance for taking your own photos at home. These services often have templates and tools to help you crop, resize, and adjust your photo to meet the required specifications.
Correcting Unacceptable Photos:
If your submitted passport photo is rejected due to non-compliance with the requirements, you will need to take steps to correct the issue. Some photo studios offer free retakes if the original photo is not accepted, so it is worth inquiring about this option when choosing a studio. If you took the photo yourself, you may need to retake the photo, ensuring that you follow all the guidelines carefully.
Online photo editing tools like passport photo maker can be helpful in cropping, resizing, and adjusting your photo to meet the specifications.
However, be cautious not to over-edit the photo, as this can lead to rejection as well. If you are unsure about the acceptability of your photo, you can seek guidance from the passport office or consult with a professional photographer who is experienced in passport photos.
Conclusion
Taking a passport photo that meets Taiwan’s requirements is essential for a smooth and successful passport application process. As long as you understand and follow all guideline above, your photo is accepted right the way
Remember to keep your passport photo up to date, as significant changes in appearance may require a new photo.
As you prepare for your travels, keep in mind the importance of a valid and compliant passport photo in ensuring a smooth journey across borders.
Additional Resources:
For more information on Taiwan passport photo requirements and the application process, you can refer to the following resources:
Bureau of Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs: https://www.boca.gov.tw/
This official government website provides comprehensive information on passport applications, including photo requirements, fees, and processing times.
International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Photo Standards: https://www.icao.int/Security/FAL/TRIP/Pages/Publications.aspx
The ICAO website offers detailed information on international passport photo standards, which Taiwan’s requirements closely align with. It provides technical specifications and best practices for passport photos worldwide.
By utilizing these additional resources, you can further ensure that your Taiwan passport photo meets all the necessary requirements and stay informed about any updates or changes to the application
FAQs
Can I wear makeup in my Taiwan passport photo?
Yes, you can wear makeup in your Taiwan passport photo. But it should be minimal and natural-looking. Avoid heavy or excessive makeup that alters your natural appearance significantly.
Are there any specific requirements for infants and young children’s passport photos in Taiwan?
Yes, Infants and young children must have their eyes open and a neutral facial expression in their Taiwan passport photos. If the child is unable to support their head, let them lay down on a white or off-white sheet and take photos.
Can I smile in my Taiwan passport photo?
No, you should maintain a neutral facial expression with a closed mouth in your Taiwan passport photo. Smiling, frowning, or other exaggerated expressions are not allowed.
Are there any specific clothing requirements for Taiwan passport photos?
Wear simple, plain-colored clothing that contrasts with the white or off-white background in your Taiwan passport photo. Avoid wearing uniforms, clothing with logos, or anything that covers your face or neck.
How recent must my Taiwan passport photo be?
Your Taiwan passport photo must be taken within the last 6 months to ensure it accurately represents your current appearance. Older photos will not be accepted.
Can I edit my Taiwan passport photo to meet the requirements?
Minor edits, such as adjusting the brightness or contrast to ensure clear facial features, are allowed. However, any edits that significantly alter your appearance, such as removing blemishes or changing your facial features, are not permitted.
What should I do if my Taiwan passport photo is rejected?
If your Taiwan passport photo is rejected, carefully review the requirements and retake the photo, ensuring that all specifications are met. If you are unsure about the requirements, seek assistance from a professional photographer or the relevant passport authorities.
