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Thailand Visa Photo Size Guide

TeamAckoNov 28, 2025

Planning a trip to Thailand? From beaches and food to temples and nightlife, Thailand has something for every traveller. But before you apply for your visa, there’s one small detail that can make a big difference, and that's your Thailand visa photo size. Submitting the wrong photo is one of the most common reasons visa applications get delayed or rejected.

Like any government worldwide, the Thai authorities demand strict adherence to their visa photo specifications. If your picture does not pass the official standard, your Thailand visa application will be declined.

Hence, here in this blog, we will discuss everything you must know about photo size for a Thailand visa.

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Contents

Thailand Visa Photo Size Requirement For Indians
Thailand Visa Photo Requirements for Visa on Arrival (VOA)
What Are The Background And Lighting Requirements For Thailand Visa Photo?
- Background Requirements
- Lighting Requirements
Thailand Visa Photo Format & Specifications
Additional Requirements for Thailand Visa Photo
Thailand Visa Photo Requirements for Children and Infants
How to Avoid Thailand Visa Photo Rejection?
Wrapping Up!
Frequently Asked Questions

Thailand Visa Photo Size Requirement For Indians

Indian travellers applying for a Thailand visa must follow the standard photo specifications set by Thai authorities.

The required Thailand visa photo size for Indians is 3.5 cm x 4.5 cm, with a plain white background free from shadows or patterns.
Your face should cover about 70-80% of the frame, remain centered, and be captured with a neutral expression and open eyes.
Avoid wearing white clothing to maintain contrast, and skip uniforms or accessories that may obscure facial features.
Glasses are not recommended due to glare and reflection issues, and the photo must be recent, taken within the last six months, and printed on high-quality matte or glossy paper.

Thailand Visa Photo Requirements for Visa on Arrival (VOA)

You must be also wondering, is a photo required for a Thailand visa on arrival? The answer is, Yes. Travellers going for Visa on Arrival must carry compliant photos to avoid paying extra at the airport for instant photos.

Size: 4 cm x 6 cm
Quantity: 1-2 photos (always carry spare copies)
Background: White
Clothing: Avoid white clothes to prevent blending
Quality: Recent, clear, and non-edited

What Are The Background And Lighting Requirements For Thailand Visa Photo?

The most commonly known rule is that a clean, clear background and proper lighting are essential for approval. Let’s look at the requirements in detail.

Background Requirements

Must be plain white
No patterns, objects, or shadows
Good contrast between the background and your face

Lighting Requirements

Even lighting on the face and background
No harsh shadows or bright spots
No red-eye effect
Natural or studio lighting both acceptable
Face should be evenly lit from the front

Thailand Visa Photo Format & Specifications

Thai visa authorities are very strict when it comes to following photo specifications. You'll want to make sure your photo meets these approved formats:

File Type (for digital submissions): JPEG/JPG
Resolution: Minimum 600 dpi
Pixels: 800 x 1200 pixels
Color: Full color - no black & white photos
Print Type: Glossy or matte photographic paper
Photo Condition: No creases, marks, or damaged edges

Additional Requirements for Thailand Visa Photo

You need to maintain a certain facial expression while using the visa photo for Thailand. Here’s all you need to know.

The applicant should look straight at the photographer without showing teeth, as he can only give a slight smile through his normal facial expression.
The head orientation is highlighted, and it should be centred, looking straight at the camera.
There should be clear visibility of the eyes and facial features in order not to be obstructed by the falling hair.

Thailand Visa Photo Requirements for Children and Infants

Children also need to follow the general Thailand visa photo rules, but there are a few relaxed guidelines to make it easier for them.

Parents can photograph their children on a baby chair or on the floor without their hands or any object appearing in the camera frame.
The background is still important, as it needs clarity with a white or off-white colour. Additionally, there should be no toys or pacifiers lying around in the visual field.
In the photograph, the child’s eyes should be open with their mouths closed and head straight towards the camera.

These guidelines help ensure that children’s visa photos are accepted easily while still meeting the basic visual requirements set by Thai authorities.

How to Avoid Thailand Visa Photo Rejection?

Apart from Thailand visa photo size, there are many aspects you need to keep in mind to avoid visa photo rejection.

Image Quality: Use a high-quality photo and avoid blurry or unclear images.
Clear Visibility: Ensure the face and eyes are visible, with no obstruction.
Direct Eye Contact: Look directly at the camera; avoid side glances.
Correct Borders: Ensure the photo fits within the required borders.
Background Colour: Stick to the correct background colour, usually white or off-proper white
Cropping: Don't crop the photo from another image; use a full, unaltered picture.
Closed Mouth: Keep your mouth closed, and teeth should not be visible.
No Accessories: Avoid wearing sunglasses, hats, or caps in the photo.
Mark-Free Photos: Ensure the photo has no marks or objects obstructing your face.
Face Coverage: Make sure your face is at least 70-80% visible in the photo.
Photographic Paper: Print the photo on photographic paper, not regular paper.

Wrapping Up!

If you’re applying for a Thailand visa, the photo you use in the visa application is one of the most important aspects of obtaining the visa. If the photo does not meet the requirements it can lead to your visa application being rejected.

So, now that you know everything there is to know about the size of the photo, you can apply for a Thailand visa the correct way, and with ease. Additionally, don’t forget to purchase travel insurance before embarking on your international trip, as it can protect you from a lot of unwanted surprises and ensure your vacation will be stress-free and memorable for you and your loved ones.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here we have answered some of the common questions about the Thailand visa photo size.

What background colour is acceptable for Thailand visa photos?

The background should be either plain white or off-white.

Can a child's visa photo be taken on a baby chair or floor?

Yes, but no hands or visible objects should be in the frame.

Are headwear and hats allowed in Thailand visa photos?

Generally, no, except for religious reasons; in such cases, the face must be fully visible.

What are the common reasons for Thailand visa photo rejection?

Reasons include unclear photos, improper cropping, open mouths, and incorrect background colours.

Is it mandatory for children to have their eyes open in the visa photo?

Yes, children should have their eyes open, a closed mouth and a centred head.

Can I wear glasses in my Thailand visa photo?

Yes you can. But you have to make sure that no flash reflection, and the eyes should be fully visible without any obstruction.

What dimensions are required for the Thailand visa photo in 2025?

For 2025, the standard Thailand visa photo size remains 3.5 cm × 4.5 cm. Some Visa on Arrival counters may request 4 cm × 6 cm, so it’s best to confirm with the specific Thai Embassy or Consulate you’re applying through.

Can I use a selfie for my Thailand visa photo?

No. Selfies are not accepted for Thailand visa applications.

Can I get a Thailand visa photo done online?

Yes, you can. Many online visa photo tools and apps can generate Thailand-approved photos as long as you upload a clear picture and ensure it meets the official size, background, and quality requirements.

Is a visa photo for work the same as a normal visa for Thailand?

Yes. The photo requirements for a Thailand work visa are the same as those for tourist, business, or other standard visas.

What should my Thailand visa photo size be in inches?

The standard Thailand visa photo size of 3.5 cm × 4.5 cm converts to approximately 1.38 x 1.77 inches. For Visa on Arrival (VOA), some airports may request slightly larger photos, i.e., 4 cm x 6 cm, which is about 1.57 x 2.36 inches.