Getting the perfect visa photo isn’t as easy as it sounds. A perfect visa photo is essential for a successful Sri Lankan visa application. If your photo doesn’t meet the official requirements, it could cause delays or even result in your application being rejected.
To make the process easier, we’ve created the Atlys Sri Lanka Visa Photo Maker. This tool automatically adjusts your photo’s size, background, and format to match the official Sri Lankan visa guidelines, saving you time, effort, and unnecessary stress.
To help you get started, we’ve outlined the official Sri Lanka visa photo specifications below.
How to use the Sri Lanka visa photo maker tool?
Applying for a Sri Lanka visa? Ensure your photo meets all the official requirements with this simple and reliable tool:
1. Upload Your Photo
Select a photo from your device (in JPEG, JPG, or PNG format). If needed, you can also take a new selfie on the spot.
2. Adjust & Resize
Click ‘Transform’ and let the tool automatically crop, resize, and adjust your photo according to the official Sri Lanka visa photo guidelines.
3. Download & Use
Once your photo is ready, download the Sri Lanka visa-compliant version and attach it to your visa application. It’s fast, accurate, and stress-free.
Tip: You can also apply for your Sri Lanka visa through Atlys in just a few easy steps!
Sri Lanka visa photo requirement
Here are the Sri Lanka visa passport photo specifications:
Height & Size: 3.5 x 4.5 cm
File Size: Not officially specified (for digital uploads, under 2 MB is generally acceptable)
Photo Format: JPG or JPEG (if digital)
Background: Plain light background (white, light blue, or light grey)
Face Size: 70% to 80% of image height, or approximately 2.5 cm from forehead to chin
Borders: No
Recent: Taken within the last 6 months
Face Orientation: Straight-looking, face centred, eyes open
Quality: High resolution, clear focus, no marks, creases, or ink lines
Facial Expression: Neutral, no smiling
Headgear: Not allowed unless for religious reasons, and must not obscure the face
Eyeglasses: Not permitted
Clothing: Regular clothing that contrasts with the background
Devices: No headphones or accessories
Lighting: Uniform, no shadows or red-eye
Printing: Must be printed on professional photo paper (no Polaroids or standard printer photos)
Detailed Explanation of Sri Lanka Visa Photo Requirements
Photo Dimensions & Face Proportion:
Photos must measure 3.5 cm x 4.5 cm. The face from the forehead to the chin should cover 70–80% of the photo height (about 2.5 cm).
Background & Lighting:
Use a plain light background such as white, light blue, or light grey. Ensure no shadows fall on the face or background, and avoid any textures or patterns.
Clarity & Contrast:
Photos must be of high clarity, with natural skin tone, adequate brightness, and contrast. Photos that are too dark, overexposed, or underexposed will be rejected.
Face Visibility & Positioning:
Your eyes must be open, and your face should be centred. Hair should not cover the forehead, eyes, or ears.
Prohibited Items:
No spectacles, red-eye, head-dress (unless religious), lines, or other people or objects in the photo.
Printing Quality:
Use only professional photo printing paper. Photos printed with standard home printers or Polaroids are not accepted.
Sri Lanka Visa Photo Requirements for Minors
Infants under one year: If the eyes are not fully open, it is acceptable.
The child must be alone in the photo — no toys, hands, or other people should appear.
The child’s face must be clearly visible, with a neutral expression.
The background must be light-colored, consistent with adult photo standards.
Ensure no shadows, with uniform lighting.
The photo must be of high quality, not blurry or pixelated.
It is advisable to lay the infant on a plain white sheet and photograph from above for ease.
These requirements help ensure that the child’s photo is suitable for identification and visa processing.
Do’s and Don’ts of Sri Lanka Visa Photo
Do’s:
Use the correct size: 3.5 cm x 4.5 cm
Submit a photo taken within the last 6 monthsEnsure a light background with no patterns
Keep eyes open, face visible, and head centred
Maintain a neutral expression
Ensure the photo is clear, high resolution, and printed on professional photo paper
Dress in contrasting, regular clothing
Take photos with uniform lighting and no red-eye
For minors: only the child should be visible, against a plain background
Don’ts:
Don’t wear glasses or hats (except religious headwear that doesn’t obscure the face)
Don’t include toys, hands, or other people in the frame
Don’t smile, frown, or show emotions
Don’t use filters, editing tools, or retouch the image
Don’t submit blurry, pixelated, or low-quality images
Don’t wear uniforms or camouflage clothing
Don’t submit Polaroids or photos printed on non-professional printers
Don’t use black-and-white photos
Don’t take the photo with shadows or textured backgrounds
What is the required size of a Sri Lanka visa photo?
The required size is 3.5 cm x 4.5 cm. Your face should cover about 70–80% of the photo height (around 2.5 cm from forehead to chin).
What format should the photo be in for a Sri Lanka visa?
The digital photo must be in JPEG or JPG format. PNG or other formats are not officially accepted
Is there a file size limit for uploading the digital photo?
While there is no strict size limit mentioned officially, keeping the file under 2 MB is generally acceptable for digital uploads.
Can I wear eyeglasses in the Sri Lanka visa photo?
No, eyeglasses are not allowed in Sri Lanka visa photos. Remove them before taking the picture.
Is headwear allowed in the visa photo?
Headwear is only allowed for religious purposes, but it must not obscure any facial features.
Are black-and-white photos allowed for Sri Lankan Visa?
No, black-and-white photos are not accepted. The photo must be in color with natural skin tones.
Can I use the same photo for my child’s visa for Sri Lanka if they’re on my passport?
No, each child must have their own photo, even if travelling on a parent's passport. The child must appear alone, with a plain background and clear facial visibility.
How we reviewed this tool:
Our experts continually monitor the official sources for any changes, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.
- Current Version
17 Jun 2025
Written By:
Charvi Khullar
Edited By:
Charvi Khullar
17 Jun 2025
Written By:
Charvi Khullar
Edited By:
Charvi Khullar