Ivory Coast Visa Photo Requirements 2026: 35x45 mm Size and SNEDAI Rules
In short. Traditional Ivory Coast visas require a 35x45 mm photo, while e-Visa applicants do not upload a photo online but have it taken biometrically upon arrival.
- As of 2026, traditional embassy visas require a physical 35x45 mm photograph, while e-Visa applicants have their photo taken biometrically upon arrival.
- SNEDAI e-Visa applications do not require a digital photo upload; only a passport scan, flight ticket, and accommodation proof are uploaded.
- Digital files uploaded to the SNEDAI portal must be in JPG, PNG, GIF, or PDF format and cannot exceed 1 MB each.
- A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for entry into Côte d'Ivoire.
What Changed
For travelers heading to Ivory Coast (Côte d'Ivoire) in 2026, the visa application process is managed by the government's official partner, SNEDAI. The photo requirements differ significantly depending on whether you are applying for a traditional visa at an embassy or utilizing the online e-Visa system.
If you apply for a traditional visa, you must provide a physical photograph measuring exactly 35x45 mm (3.5 x 4.5 cm). However, if you use the SNEDAI e-Visa portal, you do not need to upload a digital passport photo. The online pre-enrollment only requires three documents: your passport biodata page, a round-trip flight reservation, and an invitation letter or hotel booking. Your actual visa photo will be taken biometrically when you arrive at Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport in Abidjan.
| Requirement | Traditional Embassy Visa | SNEDAI e-Visa (Online) |
|---|---|---|
| Photo Size | 35x45 mm (3.5 x 4.5 cm) | Taken biometrically at the airport |
| Background | White or light grey | N/A (Captured on-site) |
| Age of Photo | Less than 6 months old | Taken live upon arrival |
| Document Uploads | Physical submission | Passport, Flight, Hotel (Max 1 MB each) |
| Visa Fee | Varies by embassy | 73 EUR (includes bank charges) |
Who This Affects
These rules apply to Ukrainians and all other foreign nationals who are not exempt from visa requirements for Côte d'Ivoire. The e-Visa is available only to holders of ordinary passports with a validity of at least 6 months from the date of entry.
What to Do Now
- Choose your application method: Decide whether you are eligible for the e-Visa (valid for arrival at Abidjan airport) or if you need a traditional visa from an embassy.
- Prepare e-Visa documents (if applicable): Scan your passport biodata page, flight itinerary, and accommodation proof. Ensure each file is in JPG, PNG, GIF, or PDF format and is under 1 MB in size.
- Prepare physical photos (if applicable): If applying at an embassy, print recent 35x45 mm photos on high-quality photo paper with a white or light grey background.
- Pay the fee: The e-Visa fee is 73 EUR, payable online via Visa or Mastercard.
- Carry your health documents: Regardless of the visa type, you must present an international certificate of vaccination against Yellow Fever upon arrival.
Common Mistakes
- Trying to upload a photo to SNEDAI: Many applicants waste time trying to format a digital photo for the e-Visa portal. The system only asks for your passport, flight, and accommodation documents.
- Uploading files that are too large: The SNEDAI portal will reject any file larger than 1 MB. Compress your PDFs or JPEGs before uploading.
- Skipping the biometric line: Even if you have visited Ivory Coast before, biometric enrollment (fingerprints and a live photo) is mandatory for every single e-Visa entry at the airport.
Rules change frequently — always verify current requirements on the official government source provided above before taking action.
Official sources
Questions
- Do I need to upload a photo for the Ivory Coast e-Visa?
- No. The official SNEDAI e-Visa portal only requires you to upload a scan of your passport, a flight reservation, and proof of accommodation. Your photo will be taken biometrically at the airport.
- What is the photo size for a traditional Ivory Coast visa?
- If you are applying at an embassy or consulate, you must provide a physical photograph that measures 35x45 mm (3.5 x 4.5 cm) with a white or light grey background.
- What is the maximum file size for SNEDAI e-Visa uploads?
- Each document uploaded to the SNEDAI portal (passport, flight, hotel) must be in JPG, PNG, GIF, or PDF format and cannot exceed 1 MB in size.
- How much does the Ivory Coast e-Visa cost?
- The e-Visa costs 73 Euros, which includes bank charges, and is payable online using a Visa or Mastercard.