Bahrain eVisa Photo Requirements 2026: Official 35x45 mm Size & NPRA Rules
In short. In 2026, Bahrain's NPRA requires eVisa applicants to upload a 35x45 mm digital photo with a plain white background and no glasses.
- The official digital photo size for the Bahrain eVisa is 35x45 mm.
- The background must be plain white with no shadows or patterns.
- Glasses are not permitted in the photograph.
- The digital file must be in JPEG format and typically under 2 MB.
- Photos must be taken within the last 6 months.
The Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs (NPRA) of Bahrain enforces strict biometric photo standards for all eVisa applications submitted via the official portal. For 2026, applicants must ensure their digital photo meets the exact 35x45 mm specifications to avoid automatic rejection by the system.
What Are the 2026 Rules?
When applying for a Bahrain eVisa online, the digital photo upload must adhere to the following biometric standards:
- Dimensions: 35x45 mm.
- Background: Plain white with no patterns, shadows, or textures.
- Face Proportion: The head must occupy 70–80% of the image height (measured from the chin to the crown).
- Expression: Neutral facial expression, both eyes open, and mouth closed.
- Accessories: Glasses are not permitted. Head coverings are only allowed for religious reasons and must not obscure any facial features.
- Format: Digital JPEG/JPG file, typically under 2 MB.
- Recency: Taken within the last 6 months to reflect your current appearance.
| Requirement | Official NPRA Standard (2026) |
|---|---|
| Size | 35x45 mm |
| Background | Plain white |
| Head Size | 70–80% of the photo height |
| Format | JPEG / JPG |
| File Size | Under 2 MB |
| Glasses | Not permitted |
Who Does This Affect?
These photo requirements apply to all foreign nationals, including Ukrainians, applying for any type of Bahrain eVisa (such as tourist, business, or family visit visas) through the official NPRA portal. Failing to meet these exact specifications is a leading cause of application delays or rejections.
What to Do Now
When preparing your Bahrain eVisa application, follow these steps to ensure your photo is accepted:
- Take a New Photo: Do not scan an old printed photograph. Take a new digital photo against a well-lit, plain white wall.
- Remove Accessories: Take off your glasses, hats, and any bulky jewelry.
- Check the Lighting: Ensure there are no shadows on your face or the background.
- Crop to Size: Use a photo editing tool to crop the image to the required 35x45 mm proportions, ensuring your head takes up 70-80% of the frame.
- Save as JPEG: Export the final image as a JPEG file under 2 MB before uploading it to the NPRA portal.
Common Mistakes
- Incorrect Background: Using an off-white, cream, or textured background instead of pure white.
- Wearing Glasses: Even clear prescription glasses can cause glare or obscure the eyes, leading to automatic rejection by the NPRA system.
- Poor Cropping: Submitting a photo where the head is too small or too large within the 35x45 mm frame.
- Digital Alterations: Using filters or retouching software to alter your appearance.
Rules change frequently — always verify the latest requirements on the official government source provided above before taking action.
Official sources
Questions
- What is the official photo size for a Bahrain eVisa?
- The required size for the digital upload is 35x45 mm, with the head occupying 70-80% of the image height.
- Can I wear glasses in my Bahrain eVisa photo?
- No, glasses are not permitted in the photo to avoid glare and ensure full visibility of your eyes.
- What background color is required?
- The background must be plain white, with no patterns, shadows, or textures.