The biometric passport is a document that certifies your identity. It is a document that allows you to travel abroad. When creating your application, it is important that your identity photo is valid and correctly taken.
Below you will find all the mandatory standards for ID photo to respect so that your passport is validated.
What are the mandatory regulations for passport ID photo?
For your passport to be accepted, your passport photo must be less than 6 months old and resemble you.
The passport photo is the same as for identity cards:
1. ID PHOTO SIZE
The identification photo must be recent and resembling you on the day the application is filed or the document is received. You must take a photo that is approved by national authorities.
2. FORMAT OF ID PHOTO
In Europe the official photo size is 45mm high by 35mm wide. The size of the face should be 32 to 36 mm, from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head (excluding the hair).
3. LIGHTING/ COLOR FOR OFFICIAL PHOTO
The photo should have a good balance between overexposure and underexposure. It should be high contrast, with no shadow on the face or in the background. A color photo is recommended.
4. ID PHOTO QUALITY
The photo must be of high quality (clear, without traces or folding lines).
5. Background
The background should be plain and light in color. White background is prohibited!
6. HEAD IN OFFICIAL PHOTO
Your head must be bare, without a hat, scarf, headband or any other decorative object and your hair must be seen. No visible accessories should be noticeable on your official photo. That includes barrettes, elastic bands and other extras. If your hair is bothering you, tie it in a ponytail behind your head. It will not be visible in the ID photo.
7. EYE DIRECTION AND HEAD POSITION
The subject must face the lens, hold head straight and look directly into the lens. A neutral expression must be maintained with closed mouth.
8. FACE AND EYES
Face must be clear. Eyes must be open. The aim is to recognize you in the photo.
9. GLASSES
Thick frames are prohibited on an id photo. Glasses must not obscure the eyes. For this reason, tinted glasses are prohibited. Note that there should be also no reflection on the glasses.
How to make ID photos for your passport?
Make your ID photos online in the correct format without leaving home. Receive your passport photos directly in your email and within few days in your mailbox. Download our app on your smartphone, available on Google Play or Apple Store.
Remember if your ID photos are not accepted, the process of getting passport will be prolonged. So let the our team verify for you that the photo conforms with the ICAO standards and save yourself worries about any unnecessary delays.