Getting your Morocco visa photo right the first time can save you days of delays. Whether you are applying for an eVisa online or submitting documents at an embassy, your photo must meet strict specifications based on international standards.
This guide covers every detail – size, background, face positioning, digital format, and common mistakes that lead to rejection.
Morocco Visa Photo Size and Dimensions
The official Morocco visa photo size follows ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) biometric standards, as confirmed by the acces-maroc.ma official portal.
| Specification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Width | 35 mm (3.5 cm / 1.38 inches) |
| Height | 45 mm (4.5 cm / 1.77 inches) |
| Pixels (at 600 DPI) | 826 x 1062 |
| Head size (chin to crown) | 32-36 mm (70-80% of photo) |
| Top margin (head to edge) | 2-3 mm minimum |
Your head must be centred in the frame, facing straight ahead. The distance from the top of your hair to the top edge of the photo should be small (around 2-3 mm), with your chin positioned so that your face fills most of the frame.
Digital Photo Specifications for eVisa
When applying for a Morocco eVisa online through acces-maroc.ma, you upload a digital version of your photo. The official portal accepts the following formats:
| Specification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| File format | JPG, JPEG, or PDF |
| Maximum file size | 1 MB |
| Resolution | 300-600 DPI (600 DPI recommended) |
| Colour mode | Full colour (no black and white) |
| ICAO compliance | Required |
The photo must be in colour and clearly show your facial features. Black-and-white photographs are not accepted. If you are scanning a printed photo, make sure the scan is high-resolution and free from artifacts.
Background Requirements
The background of your Morocco visa photo plays a crucial role in acceptance. Moroccan authorities and embassies have specific preferences:
- White background – the most widely accepted option, especially for eVisa applications
- Light grey background – accepted by most Moroccan embassies and consulates
- Light blue background – an alternative accepted by some embassies
Regardless of colour, the background must be:
- Plain – no patterns, textures, designs, or objects
- Evenly lit – no shadows falling on the background
- Consistent – uniform colour across the entire background
If you do not have a suitable wall, hang a clean white or light grey sheet behind you. Make sure it is smooth and wrinkle-free.
Face Positioning and Expression
Moroccan visa photo rules require a front-facing, neutral portrait. Here is exactly what the authorities expect:
Expression:
– Neutral facial expression – no smiling, frowning, or raised eyebrows
– Mouth must be closed
– Eyes must be open and clearly visible
Head position:
– Face the camera directly (no tilting or turning)
– Head straight and upright
– Both ears ideally visible (not mandatory but recommended)
– Full hairline visible
Framing:
– Full face must occupy 70-80% of the photo
– Shoulders should be visible at the bottom of the frame
– Centred horizontally in the frame
A common mistake is looking slightly to one side or tilting the head. Even a small tilt can cause your photo to be rejected. Ask someone else to take the photo so you can focus on keeping still.
Glasses, Headgear, and Accessories
The rules around glasses and headgear are strict for Morocco visa photos:
Glasses:
– Not allowed unless required for medical reasons
– If medically necessary, frames must not cover any part of your eyes
– Lenses must be completely clear with no glare or reflection
– Avoid heavy or thick frames
Headgear:
– Allowed only for religious reasons (e.g., hijab, turban, kippah)
– Must not cast any shadows on your face
– Your full face – from chin to forehead – must be clearly visible
– Hats, caps, and casual headwear are not permitted
Other accessories:
– No sunglasses or tinted glasses
– No coloured contact lenses that change your natural eye appearance
– Large earrings, headbands, or necklaces that cause glare or obstruct your face should be removed
– Ear piercings and small jewellery are generally acceptable
Photo Quality and Print Requirements
For embassy applications that require physical prints, the quality of the photo paper and print matters:
- Paper type: High-quality matte or glossy photo paper
- Focus: Sharp and in focus – no blurriness or soft edges
- Lighting: Even, natural lighting with no harsh shadows on your face
- Defects: No creases, scratches, pen marks, smudges, or fingerprints
- Red-eye: Must be absent (use anti-red-eye settings or edit it out)
- Glare: No flash glare on skin, glasses, or background
- Colour accuracy: Natural skin tones, no colour casts or overexposure
Home-printed photos on regular paper are generally not accepted. Visit a professional photo studio or use a high-quality photo printing service.
Photo Requirements for Children and Infants
Moroccan authorities understand that photographing young children is challenging. Special rules apply:
Infants (under 1 year):
– Eyes may be closed
– The baby can be lying down on a white/light background
– Photo must be taken from above
– No toys, blankets, or other people in the frame
Toddlers and young children:
– Must face the camera directly
– Eyes should be open
– A slight relaxed expression is acceptable
– If a parent is holding the child, no part of the parent’s body should be visible
– The child should be alone in the photo
General tips for children’s photos:
– Use natural lighting (avoid flash, which can startle babies)
– Dress the child in colours that contrast with the background
– Take multiple shots and choose the best one
Common Mistakes That Lead to Rejection
Avoid these frequent errors that cause Morocco visa photos to be rejected:
| Mistake | How to Avoid |
|---|---|
| Photo older than 6 months | Take a fresh photo specifically for your application |
| Wrong dimensions | Verify 35mm x 45mm before printing or cropping |
| Smiling or frowning | Keep a relaxed, neutral expression with mouth closed |
| Wearing glasses | Remove all eyewear unless medically required |
| Shadows on face or background | Use even, diffused lighting from multiple angles |
| Coloured or patterned background | Use a plain white, light grey, or light blue background |
| Blurry or low-resolution image | Use a good camera and ensure the image is in sharp focus |
| Photo printed on regular paper | Use matte or glossy photo paper from a professional printer |
| Head tilted or turned | Face the camera straight on, with head level |
| File too large for eVisa upload | Keep digital files under 1 MB in JPG or JPEG format |
How to Take Your Morocco Visa Photo
You have two main options for getting a compliant photo:
Professional photographer
A professional photo studio is the safest choice. Photographers familiar with visa requirements will handle the size, lighting, background, and printing. This typically costs between $5-15 for a set of photos. Ask specifically for “ICAO-standard biometric photos” to ensure compliance.
DIY at home
You can take your own Morocco visa photo at home with some preparation:
- Set up the background – Hang a white sheet or stand against a white wall
- Lighting – Use natural daylight from a window, or two soft light sources placed at 45-degree angles on either side of your face
- Camera position – Place the camera at eye level, about 1.5 metres away
- Dress code – Wear solid-coloured clothing that contrasts with the background (avoid white)
- Take the photo – Stand straight, face the camera, keep a neutral expression
- Crop and resize – Use an online photo tool to crop to 35mm x 45mm with the correct head positioning
Several online tools can help you crop and adjust your photo to meet Morocco’s specifications automatically.
Morocco eVisa vs Embassy Visa Photo Differences
The core photo requirements are the same whether you apply online or at an embassy, but there are practical differences:
| Aspect | eVisa (Online) | Embassy Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Digital upload (JPG/JPEG/PDF) | Physical prints on photo paper |
| Quantity | 1 digital file | Typically 2 printed photos |
| Background | White (most common) | White, grey, or blue (check embassy) |
| Max file size | 1 MB | N/A (physical prints) |
| Submission | Uploaded during online application | Attached to paper application |
Always check with your specific embassy or consulate, as some may have additional local requirements beyond the standard ICAO specifications. The Morocco visa requirements page covers the full list of documents needed for each application type.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the exact photo size for a Morocco visa?
The Morocco visa photo must be 35mm wide and 45mm tall (3.5 x 4.5 cm). At 600 DPI, this translates to 826 x 1062 pixels. Your head should fill 70-80% of the photo, with the chin-to-crown measurement between 32 and 36mm.
Can I wear glasses in my Morocco visa photo?
No, glasses are not allowed in Morocco visa photos unless you need them for medical reasons. If you do wear them medically, the frames must not cover your eyes and the lenses must be completely clear with no glare. It is safest to remove all eyewear.
What background colour is required for a Morocco visa photo?
A plain white background is the safest choice and is recommended for eVisa applications. Light grey and light blue backgrounds are also accepted by most Moroccan embassies. The background must be free of patterns, shadows, and textures.
How recent must my Morocco visa photo be?
Your photo must have been taken within the last 6 months. It should accurately reflect your current appearance, including hairstyle, facial hair, and any changes to your face. Submitting an older photo is one of the most common reasons for rejection.
Can I smile in my Morocco visa photo?
No. You must maintain a neutral expression with your mouth closed and your eyes open. Smiling, frowning, or raising your eyebrows will result in your photo being rejected.
What file format is accepted for the Morocco eVisa photo upload?
The official acces-maroc.ma portal accepts JPG, JPEG, and PDF formats. The maximum file size is 1 MB. Most applicants find that a high-quality JPEG file between 200 KB and 500 KB works well.
Do I need to submit photos for a Morocco eVisa or just an embassy visa?
Both. The eVisa application requires you to upload a digital photo during the online process. Embassy visa applications typically require 2 physical printed photos attached to your paper application.
What are the photo requirements for a baby or infant applying for a Morocco visa?
Infants under 1 year old may have their eyes closed in the photo. The baby should be lying on a white background and photographed from above. No toys, blankets, or other people should be visible. For toddlers over 1 year, eyes should be open and the child should face the camera.
Can I take my Morocco visa photo with my phone?
Yes, you can use a smartphone to take your own Morocco visa photo, as long as it meets all the specifications. Use good lighting, a plain background, and ensure the image is sharp and high-resolution. You will need to crop it to the correct 35mm x 45mm dimensions using an online tool or photo editing app.
What happens if my Morocco visa photo is rejected?
If your photo does not meet the requirements, your visa application may be delayed or refused. For eVisa applications, you may be asked to re-upload a compliant photo. For embassy applications, you will need to submit new photos. This is why it is worth getting the photo right the first time to avoid processing delays.
What resolution should my Morocco visa photo be?
The recommended resolution is 600 DPI, though 300 DPI is acceptable as a minimum. Higher resolution ensures your photo prints clearly and meets biometric scanning requirements. At 600 DPI, the digital image should be 826 x 1062 pixels.
Do different Moroccan embassies have different photo requirements?
The core requirements (35mm x 45mm, ICAO standard) are consistent across all Moroccan embassies. However, some embassies may have slight variations in accepted background colours or may request additional photos. Always check with your specific embassy before applying.
