Step-by-Step RW Eastern Africa visa photo 2x2 inch (Rwanda) (51x51 mm, 5x5 cm) Application Guide

Requirements

• Photo dimensions: exactly 2×2 inches (51×51 mm or 5×5 cm) with no borders or cropping beyond tolerance
• Head size and position: head (top of hair to chin) must measure 32–36 mm and be centered both vertically and horizontally
• Eye-line placement: pupils should sit 28–32 mm from the bottom edge of the photo
• Background color: uniform pure white with no patterns, textures, shadows or gradients
• Photo quality and finish: printed on high-resolution photo paper (minimum 600 dpi scan if digital), semi-gloss or matte finish, no inkjet grain, smudges or fingerprints
• Color accuracy: natural skin tones with true-to-life color balance, no over-saturation or color casts
• Facial expression: neutral expression or natural closed-mouth smile, both eyes open and clearly visible, no raised eyebrows
• Head orientation: full-face view, head straight, no tilting, looking directly into the camera lens
• Glasses rule: no sunglasses or tinted lenses; if regular glasses are worn ensure no glare, reflections or frames covering eyes
• Head coverings: only allowed for religious reasons, must not obscure hairline, forehead or cast shadows on the face
• Hair and face visibility: hair must not cover any part of the face (including eyes), no loose strands; full forehead and both ears visible
• Clothing and uniforms: everyday attire only, no military, police or camouflage uniforms, no large logos or busy patterns
• Photo age: taken within the last 6 months to reflect current appearance
• File format (digital submission): JPEG or PNG, resolution at least 600×600 pixels, file size between 200 KB and 1 MB, minimal compression artifacts
• Children and infants: eyes open and visible where possible; no hands or pacifiers in frame; plain white blanket or parent’s hands out of frame if support needed

Step-by-Step Process

Content about Step-by-Step RW Eastern Africa visa photo 2x2 inch (Rwanda) (51x51 mm, 5x5 cm) Application Guide - process

Tips and Best Practices

• Accurate sizing and cropping: ensure the photo is exactly 2×2 inches (51×51 mm) with your head height 25–35 mm from chin to crown—incorrect dimensions or improper head positioning trigger automatic rejections.
• Neutral expression and open eyes: maintain a relaxed face with mouth closed and eyes fully open—smiling or squinting can obscure facial features and lead to non‐compliance.
• Even, shadow‐free lighting: use soft, diffused daylight or balanced studio lights against a plain white or light‐grey background—harsh shadows or overexposure often result in unacceptable contrast.
• Recent, unedited image: supply a photo taken within the last six months with no digital filters or airbrushing—outdated or retouched images cause identity mismatches and delays.
• Appropriate attire and visibility: wear everyday clothes (no uniforms, hats or sunglasses) except religious head coverings that do not cover the face—hidden features or restricted clothing style violate Rwanda’s visa photo policy.

Conclusion

By following the Step-by-Step RW Eastern Africa visa photo 2×2 inch (51×51 mm) guide, you can ensure your submission meets Rwanda’s strict requirements and avoids costly delays.

Key Points:

• Dimensions: exactly 2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm, 5 × 5 cm) with square format
• Background: plain, uniform white or off-white with no shadows
• Head positioning: centered, full face visible, neutral expression, mouth closed
• Eye level: between 1 ⅛ inch and 1 ⅜ inch from bottom of photo
• Lighting: even, no glare or red-eye, natural skin tones
• Attire: no hats or glasses (unless for religious/medical reasons), hairline fully visible
• Photo quality: high resolution (600 × 600 px minimum), glossy finish, recent (within 6 months)

Adhering to these specifications guarantees a smooth visa application process and on-time travel plans.