First-Time BJ Benin visa 3.5x4.5 cm (35x45 mm) Application Tips - Beginner's Guide

Requirements

• Photo size: 35×45 mm exactly, with the head centered and filling 70–80 % of the frame
• Head dimensions: crown to chin measures 31–36 mm; eye-line 17–19 mm from bottom edge
• Background: uniform white or light gray, with no shadows, patterns, or textures
• Photo quality: high-resolution color print on matte or glossy photo paper, no pixelation
• Recency: taken within the last six months to reflect your current appearance
• Facial expression: neutral look, mouth closed, eyes open and clearly visible
• Head position: straight at camera, no tilt or turn, both edges of face and shoulders visible
• Glasses & accessories: no glasses or tinted lenses; head coverings only for religious reasons if they don’t obscure facial features
• Lighting: even, with no red-eye, glare, reflections, or shadow across the face or background
• Retouching: absolutely no digital or physical alterations—natural skin tone and texture required
• Quantity: submit two identical photos printed on separate sheets
• Passport validity: valid at least six months beyond planned date of entry, with two blank visa pages
• Application form: fully completed and signed, using black ink or typed print, no corrections by hand
• Cover letter: concise statement of purpose, travel dates, and local host/contact details
• Flight reservation: confirmed round-trip or onward ticket itinerary
• Accommodation proof: hotel booking confirmation or invitation letter from Beninese host with contact and address
• Financial proof: bank statements for last three months showing sufficient funds (per-day minimum set by consulate)
• Travel insurance: policy covering emergency medical treatment, evacuation, and repatriation with minimum coverage US $30 000
• Consular fee: exact amount paid via bank draft or online payment as specified, with original receipt
• Appointment confirmation: printed copy of consulate interview or document drop-off slot
• Biometrics & interview: attend scheduled consulate appointment for fingerprinting and/or brief visa interview
• Processing timeline: apply at least four weeks before departure to allow for standard 10–15 business-day processing
• Follow-up: monitor application status online or via email; be ready to supply additional documents within 48 hours

Step-by-Step Process

Content about First-Time BJ Benin visa 3.5x4.5 cm (35x45 mm) Application Tips - process

Tips and Best Practices

• Exact Dimensions: ensure your photo measures precisely 35×45 mm with the head height between 32–36 mm and appropriate margins to avoid automatic rejection by Benin’s e-visa system.
• Plain White Background: use a uniform, shadow-free white backdrop to prevent contrast issues and ensure biometric software can accurately detect facial features.
• Neutral Expression & Visibility: keep a natural, closed-mouth expression with eyes fully visible and no hair or accessories obscuring your face to meet Benin’s strict ID requirements.
• Even, Diffused Lighting: photograph under soft, balanced light to eliminate shadows, glare, and red-eye so that skin tones remain true and background stays pure white.
• High-Quality Print & Paper: print at 300 dpi or higher on matte, non-reflective photo paper without any retouching filters to maintain clarity and prevent scanning errors.

Conclusion

In summary, getting your first-time Benin visa photo right hinges on strict adherence to the 35×45 mm (3.5×4.5 cm) specifications and submission guidelines:

• Exact dimensions: 35 mm wide × 45 mm tall, with the head (from chin to top) measuring 32–36 mm
• Plain, light background: crisp white or off-white, no patterns or shadows
• Head positioning: centered, facing forward, eyes at roughly 60–70 % of photo height
• Neutral expression: closed mouth, natural look, no glasses reflections, no headwear (unless for religious reasons)
• High quality print: sharp focus, true-to-life color, no ink marks or creases
• Proper annotation: lightly print your name and date of birth on the back without obscuring the image

By double-checking these criteria before submission and using a trusted photo service when possible, you’ll avoid delays, meet Benin’s stringent standards, and move one step closer to securing your visa.