Chile Visa and Residence Permit Photo Requirements 2026: Official Size 45x45 mm
In short. To apply for a visa or residence permit in Chile in 2026, a square 45x45 mm photo on a white background without shadows is required.
- The official photo size for Chile is 45x45 mm (square).
- The background must be exclusively white, without shadows or patterns.
- The face must occupy 70-80% of the total photo area.
- The photo must be taken no later than 6 months before submitting the application.
- Glasses and headwear (except for religious purposes) are prohibited.
When submitting documents for a visa or residence permit (residencia) in Chile in 2026, one of the most important steps is providing the correct photograph. The official standard requires a square photo measuring 45x45 mm (4.5 x 4.5 cm). Failure to comply with these technical requirements is one of the most common reasons for delays or rejections of applications by the National Migration Service (SERMIG) and Chilean consulates.
What has changed
Chilean migration authorities strictly adhere to the square photo standard, which differs from the usual European (35x45 mm) or American (51x51 mm) formats. The photograph must be uploaded in digital form for online submission or provided in printed form (on matte or glossy photo paper) for physical submission.
| Characteristic | Official Chilean requirement |
|---|---|
| Size | 45 x 45 mm (square) |
| Background | Pure white, without patterns and shadows |
| Face size | 70-80% of the total photo area |
| Age | Taken no later than 6 months before submission |
| Facial expression | Neutral, mouth closed, eyes open and looking at the camera |
| Accessories | Glasses and headwear are prohibited (except for religious ones, provided they do not cover the face) |
Who this applies to
These requirements apply to all foreigners, including citizens of Ukraine, who are applying for:
- Tourist or work visas through Chilean consulates.
- Temporary residence permit (Residencia Temporal) through the SERMIG portal.
- Permanent residence permit (Residencia Definitiva).
For infants and children, the same size and background requirements apply, but minor deviations in facial expression are allowed (for example, infants under 1 year old are allowed to have their eyes closed, but there must be no toys, parents' hands, or other foreign objects in the photo).
What to do now
- Take a new photo: Visit a photo studio or use specialized online services, specifying the exact size of 45x45 mm.
- Check the lighting: Ensure there are no shadows on the face or the white background. The lighting must be even.
- Prepare the digital file: For submission through the SERMIG portal, save the photo in JPG or PNG format with high resolution (600 dpi recommended) and a file size of up to 120 KB (or according to the requirements of the specific online form).
- Print if necessary: If physical submission is required, print copies on high-quality photo paper.
Common mistakes
- Incorrect size: Submitting a standard European 35x45 mm photo instead of a square 45x45 mm one will result in rejection.
- Shadows on the background: Using a gray, blue, or unevenly lit white background.
- Old photo: Using a photo from a previous visa or passport issued more than 6 months ago.
- Glasses: Wearing glasses (even prescription ones) that create glare or cover the eyes.
Rules change frequently — before taking action, always check the current requirements on the official government source provided above.
Related guides
Official sources
Questions
- What size photo is required for a visa to Chile?
- The official photo size for a Chilean visa and residence permit is 45x45 mm (square shape).
- What color should the background of the photo be?
- The background must be pure white, without shadows, patterns, or other objects.
- Can I take a photo wearing glasses?
- No, it is recommended to remove glasses for photos for Chilean documents to avoid glare and covering the eyes.
- Will a photo taken a year ago work?
- No, the photograph must be current and taken no later than 6 months before the time of application submission.