May 28, 2026 · Singapore
Singapore Passport Photo Requirements 2026 – ICA Rules
Singapore's Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) enforces strict biometric photo standards. This guide covers every requirement — with particular attention to the background colour rule, which is stricter than in most other countries — and explains how to submit photos digitally through SingPass.
Quick summary
35×45mm, white background only (not off-white or light grey), head 25–35mm, neutral expression, no glasses, taken within 6 months.
Core Photo Requirements
The following requirements apply to Singapore passport photos submitted to the ICA or at a Singapore embassy or high commission abroad.
- Size: 35mm wide × 45mm tall. This is the ICAO standard format.
- Head height: The face (chin to crown) must occupy 25–35mm of the 45mm photo height. The face must be centred horizontally.
- Background: Plain white only. ICA explicitly disallows off-white, cream, and light grey backgrounds — even though these are accepted in many other ICAO countries.
- Expression: Neutral, relaxed expression. Mouth closed. Both eyes open and clearly visible.
- Glasses: Not permitted. ICA follows the ICAO requirement prohibiting eyewear in biometric passport photos.
- Recency: The photo must have been taken within 6 months of the application date.
- Colour: Full colour photograph only.
- Retouching: No digital filters, beauty retouching, or alterations to your appearance.
Why Singapore Requires White — Not Off-White or Grey
Many countries accept a light grey or cream background for passport photos. Singapore ICA does not. The requirement is specifically for a white background.
This distinction matters when using online passport photo tools: some tools replace the background with a slightly off-white or warm-white tone. For a Singapore passport photo, the background must be a clean, neutral white. If you are unsure, the safest approach is to use a tool that explicitly outputs a white (RGB 255, 255, 255 or near equivalent) background, or to have your photo taken in front of a white wall in good daylight.
Shadows falling on a white background can also cause it to appear off-white in the photo. Stand at least 1 metre away from the background wall, and ensure the background is evenly lit to avoid any shadow gradient.
SingPass and MyICA: Digital Passport Renewal
Singapore citizens who meet the eligibility criteria can renew their passport entirely online through the MyICA portal (ica.gov.sg) or via the SingPass app. You upload a digital photo that must meet all ICA requirements — including the white background rule.
The digital photo must be:
- In JPEG format
- At least 400×514 pixels at the correct aspect ratio
- In sharp focus, well-lit, and taken within 6 months
- Against a white background with no shadows
The online renewal system will validate your photo automatically. Always confirm the current technical requirements on the ICA website before uploading.
Passport Validity by Age
Singapore passports are issued for different validity periods depending on age:
- Adults (16 years and over): 10-year passport.
- Minors (under 16): 5-year passport.
A new photo meeting all current ICA requirements is needed with every passport application and renewal.
Comparison: SG / AU / NZ / GB
| Country | Size | Head height | Background | Max photo age |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🇸🇬 Singapore | 35×45mm | 25–35mm | White only | 6 months |
| 🇦🇺 Australia | 35×45mm | 32–36mm | White or light grey | 6 months |
| 🇳🇿 New Zealand | 35×45mm | 28–34mm | Plain light colour | 6 months |
| 🇬🇧 United Kingdom | 45×35mm | 29–34mm | Cream or light grey | 6 months |
Singapore is notably stricter on background colour than Australia, New Zealand, and the UK, which all accept off-white or light grey. Always verify current requirements with the official authority.
Common Rejection Reasons for Singapore Passport Photos
Background off-white, cream, or light grey
ICA requires white only. Use a plain white wall or white background paper with even lighting.
Glasses or eyewear visible
Remove all glasses before taking the photo.
Shadow on background making it appear off-white
Stand at least 1m from the wall and use even front lighting to eliminate background shadows.
Photo older than 6 months
Retake the photo within 6 months of your application date.
Head too small or too large
Face (chin to crown) must be 25–35mm in a 35×45mm photo.
Eyes partially closed or looking away
Both eyes must be fully open and looking directly into the camera.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an online tool to create my Singapore passport photo?
Yes. ICA does not restrict how the photo is produced — only the technical result matters. Ensure the background is white (not off-white or grey) and all other requirements are met.
Can I renew my Singapore passport from abroad?
Singapore citizens abroad can renew their passport at a Singapore embassy, high commission, or consulate. Confirm whether online renewal is available for overseas applicants on the ICA website.
Does the background requirement apply to NRIC or other Singapore identity documents?
The white background requirement applies specifically to Singapore passport photos. Requirements for other documents such as the NRIC may differ. Always check with ICA for the specific document you are applying for.
Is there a minimum resolution for Singapore passport digital photos?
For digital submissions via MyICA or SingPass, the photo must be in JPEG format and at least 400×514 pixels, maintaining the correct 35×45mm aspect ratio. Check the current technical specifications on the ICA website before uploading.
Always verify current requirements with the official authority — ICA Singapore (ica.gov.sg) or your nearest Singapore embassy or high commission.
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