How should a Singapore visa photo look?
Singapore uses a single 35×45 mm white-background frame for passport, LTVP, PR and visa. Two details rare in Asia set Singapore apart: prints must be matte or semi-matte (glossy is rejected), and ICA accepts HEIC/HEIF for digital uploads. The validity window is three months: stricter than the six-month rule used by most countries.
The body that sets the spec
The standard is published by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA); passport, Long-Term Visit Pass, Permanent Residence and tourist visa share the same 35×45 mm frame. Digital uploads target 400×514 pixels. The "taken within three months" rule is enforced strictly.
Workflow after the shoot
The frame goes to PhotoID Studio and the Singapore preset is selected; the app aligns the face, cleans the background to a single tone and exports 35×45 mm at 300 DPI. The matte-paper requirement is flagged on the print layout. For the ICA portal the same file is exported as 400×514 px JPEG or HEIC.
Capture setup and direction
Seat the customer 1.5-2 m in front of the white backdrop with shoulders parallel to the camera. Camera on a tripod, lens at eye level. Standard setup: a 50-85 mm portrait lens, f/8 aperture, a softbox at 45° with a reflector on the opposite side. Cue: "chin slightly back, mouth closed, eyes fully open, neutral expression". Clear medical glasses are accepted with no glare; tinted lenses and sunglasses are banned.
Reasons for rejection at ICA
• Glossy paper: anything other than matte or semi-matte is rejected. • A frame older than three months: Singapore's window is shorter than most. • A non-white background or visible shadow. • Tinted, thick-framed or coloured glasses; reflection on the lens. • Hair falling under the chin or covering the ear line. • A smile, visible teeth, or a slightly open mouth. • Head outside the 25-35 mm range; chin-to-crown ratio off.
For studios in Singapore
Singapore studios see steady expat and PR-renewal traffic; the three-month validity rule keeps the renewal flow tight. The PhotoID Studio Singapore preset locks the 35×45 mm white background and the matte print layout; switching to a Schengen or China format from the same frame is a one-click move.
Frequently asked questions
Can a Singapore photo be printed on glossy paper?
No. The ICA spec requires matte or semi-matte; glossy is rejected. Studios should keep matte paper stock on hand.
Why is the validity only three months?
ICA uses a three-month window: shorter than most: to keep the biometric match current.
Are HEIC files accepted?
Yes. The ICA digital portal accepts JPEG and HEIC/HEIF: relatively unusual in Asia.
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