Document photo glossary
Short definitions of the technical and administrative terms that appear across passport, visa and ID photo requirements. Each entry answers one question in one paragraph, then adds the background context.
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biometric photoA biometric photo is a portrait that meets a defined geometric standard — head height, eye position, expression, lighting and background — s…
Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)A Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) was the credit-card-sized residence permit issued to most non-British UK visa holders. It is no longer is…
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e-PassportAn e-Passport (also called a biometric passport) is a passport with an embedded RFID chip storing a digital copy of the holder's photo and p…
ESTAESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation) is the US online pre-screening required for travellers from Visa Waiver Program (VWP) coun…
ETIASETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is a pre-travel authorisation that visa-free nationals will have to obtain befo…
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VFS GlobalVFS Global is the largest outsourced operator of Visa Application Centres (VACs). Consulates contract VFS Global to run the appointment book…
VIS databaseVIS (Visa Information System) is the EU database that stores Schengen visa applicant data, including the biometric photo and fingerprints, f…
visa on arrivalA visa on arrival (VOA) is a tourist or short-stay visa issued at the destination country's airport, land border or port of entry, rather th…