Nigeria eVisa and Passport Photo Requirements 2026: Official 35x45 mm Size and Strict White Background Rules
In short. Nigeria's 2026 visa and passport photo rules mandate a strict white background, 600x800 pixel digital uploads, and visible ears for all adult applicants.
- Digital eVisa photos must be exactly 600x800 pixels and under 2MB in file size.
- Physical photos submitted at consulates typically require a 35x45 mm format.
- A pure white background is strictly mandatory; off-white or textured backgrounds will be rejected.
- Hair must not cover the face or ears, and no headphones or masks are permitted.
- Children under 5 have relaxed ICAO guidelines but must still face the camera and be centered.
Effective immediately for 2026 applications, the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) is strictly enforcing its biometric photo standards for all eVisa, Visa on Arrival, and passport applications. The most critical requirements include a mandatory pure white background, specific digital dimensions of 600x800 pixels, and a strict rule that hair must not obscure the face or ears.
What Changed in 2026
To streamline processing in the Consolidated Consular Database, Nigerian authorities are rigorously checking photo compliance. Digital uploads for the eVisa portal must meet exact file size and resolution limits, while physical photos submitted at European and international consulates generally follow the 35x45 mm standard. Furthermore, the NIS explicitly prohibits any apparel that obscures the head, such as headphones or masks, and requires that both ears be visible.
| Requirement | Physical Photo (Consulates) | Digital Upload (eVisa Portal) |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 35x45 mm | 600x800 pixels |
| File Size | N/A | Less than 2MB |
| Background | Strictly White | Strictly White |
| Visibility | Hair must not cover face or ears | Hair must not cover face or ears |
Who is Affected
These rules apply to Ukrainians and all other foreign nationals applying for a Nigerian eVisa, Visa on Arrival, or traditional consular visa. They also apply to Nigerian citizens renewing their passports. There is a minor exemption for children under the age of 5: while they must still look toward the camera with their face centered, standard ICAO relaxations apply regarding neutral expressions.
What to Do Now
- Check your background: Ensure your photo is taken against a pure, untextured white background. Shadows or off-white colors will lead to rejection.
- Format digital files: For eVisa applications, resize your image to exactly 600x800 pixels and compress the file so it is under 2MB.
- Prepare physical prints: If applying in person at a consulate, print your photos at 35x45 mm on high-quality matte or glossy photo paper.
- Clear your face: Tuck your hair behind your ears. Remove any headphones, masks, or non-religious headgear.
Common Mistakes
- Incorrect Backgrounds: Submitting photos with blue, grey, or textured backgrounds instead of pure white.
- Hidden Ears: Allowing long hair or bangs to cover the ears or forehead.
- Oversized Files: Attempting to upload digital photos larger than 2MB to the NIS portal, which will cause the application to fail.
- Poor Lighting: Submitting photos that are overexposed (too bright) or underexposed (too dark), creating shadows on the face.
Rules change frequently — before taking action, always check the latest requirements on the official government source provided above.
Related guides
Official sources
Questions
- What is the correct photo size for a Nigerian eVisa?
- For digital eVisa applications on the NIS portal, your photo must be exactly 600x800 pixels and less than 2MB in file size.
- Can I wear my hair down in a Nigerian visa photo?
- You can wear your hair down, but the official rules strictly state that hair must not cover your face or your ears.
- Are there different rules for babies and toddlers?
- Yes, the NIS applies ICAO relaxations for children under 5 years old, though the child must still look toward the camera with their face centered.