// Guidelines

What your photo must show

What your photo must show

Example of an acceptable photo for a CitizenCard application
Sample image

Your photo must:

  • contain no other objects or people
  • be a close-up of your full head and upper shoulders
  • be in clear contrast to the background

In your photo you must:

  • be facing forward and looking straight at the camera
  • have a neutral expression and your mouth closed e.g. don't smile, frown or pout
  • have your eyes open, visible and free from reflection or glare from glasses (you can't wear sunglasses or tinted glasses)
  • not have hair in front of your eyes
  • not have anything covering your face
  • not have a head covering (unless it's for religious or medical reasons) e.g. hat, cap, any fashion hair accessories or glasses on your head
  • not have any shadows on your face or behind you
  • not have any artificial markings on your face (drawings, fake tattoos or freckles, very heavy makeup)

Young Children (paper or printed application only)

Children aged five and under do not need to have a neutral expression or look straight at the camera. Babies under one don't need to have their eyes open. All other photo standards listed above must be met.