An uncompliant photo is one of the easiest and most preventable causes of a visa application delay. Here is the exact Korea visa photo specification.
Korean embassies apply strict photo requirements to visa applications. A photo that does not meet the specification will cause your application to be returned or delayed. Getting the photo right before submitting is simple and worth the attention.
Photo Specifications
- Size: 3.5 centimetres wide by 4.5 centimetres tall (3.5cm x 4.5cm)
- Background: Plain white background only. No patterns, gradients, or coloured backgrounds.
- Recency: Taken within the last 6 months. Photos that are obviously older may be rejected.
- Colour: Full colour. Black-and-white photos are not accepted.
- Face coverage: Full face visible, facing directly forward. The face should occupy 70 to 80 percent of the photo frame.
- Expression: Neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open and looking directly at the camera.
- Glasses: Not permitted. Remove glasses for the photo.
- Head coverings: Not permitted except for documented religious reasons.
- Printed quality: Printed on photo-quality paper, not a standard printer. Sharp focus throughout the face, no pixelation or blurring.
Where to Get a Compliant Photo
Professional passport photo services at pharmacies, photo studios, or postal services in most countries are familiar with Korean visa photo specifications and can produce compliant results. Bring the specifications (3.5cm x 4.5cm, white background, no glasses) and confirm with the photographer before the shot.
Online photo services (PhotoAiD, Passport Photo Online, and similar) allow you to upload a selfie and receive a digitally corrected print-ready file. These are acceptable for many embassies. Confirm with the specific Korean embassy in your country whether digital-origin photos are accepted.
How Many Photos Do You Need
Most Korean embassies require one photo affixed to the application form. Some require two. Check the specific embassy’s requirements. Print extra copies of the photos as a backup if the form is restarted.
Photo on the Application Form
The photo is affixed to the designated box on the visa application form. Use a photo-safe adhesive or the photo-mounting spot provided. Do not staple the photo to the form; staple holes in the photo or through the face area cause rejection.
Use the Korean Embassy or the Visa Center Photo Booth
Some Korean embassies, consulates, or visa application centers may have an on-site photo booth or a nearby recommended photo service. This can be a convenient option because the photo setup is usually designed to meet visa photo requirements. Check the embassy or visa center website before your appointment to confirm whether this service is available, the cost, and whether printed photos are provided immediately.
