Singapore Passport Photo Requirements.
A short reference for passport, IC, PR and visa photos in Singapore. Everything in the first section is quoted directly from ICA's official Photo Guidelines — no interpretation added.
ICA Photo Guidelines (official source)What ICA officially specifies
Digital dimensions
400 × 514 pixels for photos uploaded through ICA e-Services.
File format & size
jpg, jpeg, heic, heif or png. Maximum 8MB.
Colour & recency
A new coloured photograph is required for each new application.
Printed copies
Hardcopy submissions must be on matte or semi-matte, non-reflective paper.
Underlying standard
ICA's requirements follow the ISO and ICAO specifications used for machine-readable travel documents.
ICA publishes its framing, background and headwear rules as images rather than text, so we do not restate them here — check the "Dos and Don'ts" section on ICA's own page before you shoot. Requirements can change; ICA is always the authority.
Three things ICA explicitly warns against
Retouched or enhanced photos
ICA states the photograph must not be altered or enhanced in any way — this includes modifying facial features and using photo editing software.
Selfies
ICA does not recommend selfies; the result is usually not ideal and delays the application. If you use a phone, have someone else take it.
Glossy printed photos
Reflective paper fails the hardcopy requirement. Matte or semi-matte only.
FAQ
Q: What size does a Singapore passport photo need to be?
A: For online submission through ICA e-Services, the photo must be 400 × 514 pixels. Accepted file formats are jpg, jpeg, heic, heif and png, up to 8MB.
Q: Can I edit or retouch my passport photo?
A: No. ICA states the photograph must not be altered or enhanced in any way, including modifying facial features or using photo editing software. Studios may correct lighting and colour, but facial features cannot be changed.
Q: Can I use a selfie for my passport application?
A: ICA does not recommend it — the result is usually not ideal and will delay your application. If you are using a phone camera, ask someone else to take the photo.
Q: Does a printed passport photo need special paper?
A: Yes. Hardcopy submissions must be printed on matte or semi-matte, non-reflective photo paper.
Q: How quickly can I get a compliant passport photo in Singapore?
A: At Muridle Studio, your digital soft copy is processed and sent to your email or WhatsApp within 30 minutes, from SGD 30 per person. Sessions are available on Wednesdays and Fridays by appointment, and we re-shoot at no extra cost if a photo is rejected.
Rather not risk a rejection?
We shoot ICA-compliant passport and ID photos in Singapore from SGD 30, delivered digitally within 30 minutes — with a free re-take if it is rejected.
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