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

Requirements

• Photo dimensions: must be exactly 35 × 45 mm (5 × 5 cm) with a ±2 mm tolerance
• Head size and position: face height (chin to crown) 25–35 mm occupying 70–80 % of photo, centered with eyes 20–30 mm from bottom
• Background: plain, solid white or light-gray background with no shadows, patterns, or textures
• Pose and expression: direct full-face view, neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open and visible, head straight
• Lighting: even, balanced illumination with no shadows, glare, overexposure, or red-eye
• Glasses: thin frames only, lenses clear, no reflections or tinted glasses, eyes fully visible; remove sunglasses
• Headwear: only for religious reasons, must not obscure hairline or cast shadows on face; full facial features visible
• Clothing: everyday attire without uniforms, camouflage, or highly reflective fabrics; avoid large collars or hats
• Photo quality and finish: high-resolution image printed on matte or semi-matte photo paper, no creases, tears, marks, or ink spots
• Photo currency: taken within the last six months to reflect current appearance
• Quantity required: two identical, unmounted, unstapled, unmarked physical prints
• Digital submission specs: JPEG/PNG format, 300 dpi minimum, file size between 240 KB and 500 KB, no compression artifacts
• Attachment instructions: glue photos in designated boxes on application form; avoid staples, clips, or tape
• Verification tip: measure printed photos with a ruler to confirm dimensions and head positioning before submission

Step-by-Step Process

• Verify eligibility and visa type: confirm you need a “First‐Time BJ Benin Visa” (tourist, business, or family visit) by checking the Benin Embassy or consulate website for entry requirements and permitted activities.
• Gather required documents and photo specifications: collect a valid passport with at least six months’ validity and two blank pages; one recent color photo sized exactly 35×45 mm (5×5 cm) showing full face, neutral expression, white background, head height 70–80% of image.
• Prepare your 35×45 mm visa photo: use a professional studio or high‐resolution camera, ensure even lighting with no shadows, position eyes 28–35 mm from bottom edge, print on matte or semi‐gloss photo paper without borders.
• Download and complete the visa application form: obtain the official PDF from the embassy’s website, fill in legibly in block letters, double‐check spelling of names and dates, sign and date the form in the designated area.
• Book your submission appointment: visit the Benin Embassy or consulate’s online booking portal or call the visa section to reserve a date and time, allowing at least two weeks before your intended travel.
• Pay the visa fee: confirm the current fee on the official site (usually paid in local currency or USD), prepare a bank draft or money order if required, attach the payment receipt to your application.
• Submit in person or via courier: bring your completed form, passport, photo, supporting documents (invitation letter, itinerary, proof of funds) to the embassy or accredited visa center; if using courier, choose trackable, insured service.
• Track application and collect passport: note your reference number, monitor status online or by email/phone, once approved visit in person or receive courier delivery, check that the visa sticker details match your passport data.

Tips and Best Practices

• Accurate Dimensions: Crop your photo precisely to 35×45 mm with a head height of 32–36 mm and a 3–5 mm top margin to meet Benin’s strict size rules and avoid automatic digital rejections.
• Proper Head Position: Center your face, keep your eyes level 18–22 mm from the bottom edge, and look straight at the camera to ensure biometric alignment and prevent skewed submissions.
• Plain Background: Use a uniform white or light-grey backdrop without shadows or patterns so your features stand out clearly and comply with Benin’s background requirements.
• Even Lighting: Illuminate your face evenly from the front to eliminate shadows on both your face and the background, and adjust any flash to avoid glare—key to passing the visa officer’s visual inspection.
• Glasses & Headwear: Remove tinted lenses and any non-religious accessories; if wearing a religious head covering, ensure your full face (forehead to chin, both cheeks) remains visible to prevent photo refusals.

Conclusion

Conclusion: Adhering strictly to the 3.5×4.5 cm Benin visa photo requirements ensures a smooth first-time application and minimizes delays or rejections.

• Photo size: exactly 35×45 mm (head-to-chin 25–35 mm)
• Background: plain white or very light, no shadows or patterns
• Expression: neutral, eyes open, mouth closed, facing camera
• Attire: everyday clothing, no uniforms or excessive accessories
• Head coverings: only for religious reasons, face fully visible
• Image quality: sharp focus, high resolution, accurate color
• Age of photo: taken within the last 6 months, no editing filters
• Submission: print on high-quality photo paper or upload per consulate specs
• Verification: double-check measurements with a ruler or template before submission