The Definitive Guide to Thai Visa Photos: Why Local Expertise Matters

Securing a Thai visa or extension means juggling forms, stamps, and strict photo standards. One shadow behind an ear or a photo cut to the wrong size can trigger a rejection and force you to re-queue.

At SSCOPY, we help customers every day who were sent away for tiny mistakes. Here is everything you need to know to get your Thai visa photo right the first time—and why trusting a local expert saves time and stress.

What is the Best Way to Take a Thai Visa Photo?

The safest approach balances compliance with convenience. DIY is possible, but the strict rules from the Thai Immigration Bureau make professional lighting and printing the more reliable choice.

Safety First: Visit SSCOPY

Our studio setup removes the guesswork. We control light to prevent ear shadows, print on the right paper stock, and cut to the exact size your application requires.

• Size precision: Visa on Arrival is typically 4x6 cm, while many tourist visas abroad request 3.5x4.5 cm. We ask which form you are filing and cut accordingly.
• Wardrobe fixes: Immigration prefers collared shirts with sleeves. If you arrive in a tank top, we can digitally add a formal shirt or jacket—common in Thailand and often the difference between approval and rejection.
• Lighting control: Uneven lighting or shadows behind the ears is the top rejection reason. Our studio eliminates these risks.

If You Do It Yourself: Rigid Requirements

• Background: Plain white or off-white only—no patterns or visible shadows.
• Expression: Neutral face, mouth closed, eyes looking directly at the camera.
• Attire: Dark collared shirt with sleeves; avoid white tops and sleeveless shirts.
• Glasses: Remove them to prevent glare; tinted lenses are not allowed.
• Retouching: Skip filters—officers need to see natural skin tone and features.

Can I Take My Own Photo for a Visa Application?

Yes, especially for online e-Visa uploads, but physical applications at Chaeng Watthana, for work permits, or Visa on Arrival demand printed photos—where most DIY attempts fail.

Hidden Risks of DIY Photos

• Paper quality: Home printers often smudge or use lightweight glossy stock officials dislike.
• Selfie distortion: Cameras held too close distort facial proportions; immigration expects a portrait shot from roughly 1.5 meters.
• Cropping errors: Head-to-frame ratio should be about 70%. Misjudging this on a phone screen leads to rejections.

A rejected photo costs queue time, fees, and stress. The small fee for professional prints is usually cheaper than a redo.

Quick Checklist: Thai Visa Photo Specs

• Standard size: 4x6 cm (common for extensions and Visa on Arrival).
• Alternate size: 3.5x4.5 cm (often for embassy applications).
• Background: Plain white.
• Clothing: Formal or semi-formal, darker colors preferred.
• Expression: Neutral, no smile, mouth closed.
• Quantity: Usually two identical prints; carry extras for safety.

Need Your Visa Photos Done Right Now?

Stop by SSCOPY. We handle lighting, sizing, and printing so you can walk into Immigration with confidence.

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