France Passport & ID Photo Requirements
Getting your French passport or ID photo right is key. This guide explains all the rules about photo size, background, and other important details. We'll help you make sure your application is easy and successful.
Create Your French Passport PhotoImportant Rules for French Passport Photos
Correct French passport photo example
French passport and ID photos need to follow specific rules set by the Service Public (French government). These rules make sure the photo works well for identification and keeps your travel documents secure.
Your photos should be recent, taken in the last six months, so they look like you do now. For a French passport, you usually need two identical color photos. It's very important that these photos are printed well on good photo paper to meet the government's standards.
French Passport Photo Size and Measurements
French passport photos must be a certain size to work with international systems. Here's what you need to know about the measurements:
The photo must be 35 x 45 mm (3.5 x 4.5 cm). This size is needed for all French official documents.
Your head should measure 32 to 36 mm from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head. This ensures your face is clear for biometric checks.
Your face must be right in the middle of the photo. Your eyes should be at a certain height in the photo to work with the biometric system.
💡 Tip: The French passport photo size is not the same as the U.S. one (2x2 inches). To be sure your photo fits, use the 35x45 mm size.
Size and measurement guide
Background Rules for French Passport Photos
✓ Perfect white background
The background of your French passport photo is important for your application. Here are the rules:
Color and Style
The background must be plain light gray. It should be a clean light gray, not dark or with any other color. The background should also be smooth, making your face and clothes stand out.
Light and Shadows
The background should have even light with no shadows or textures. Photo studios usually have the right lighting to avoid shadows and light up the whole photo evenly.
Clothing
Your clothes should be a different color from the light gray background. Wear dark or medium colors to make sure you don't blend into the background. Don't wear light gray or very light clothes.
⚠️ Important: French passport offices are very strict about the background. Photos with shadows or patterns will be rejected. When you get your photo taken, ask for a French passport photo so they follow the rules.
How You Should Look in Your Photo
Your French passport photo is a key way to identify you. Follow these tips so your photo will be accepted.
Perfect pose example
French passport photos need to follow certain rules so they meet international standards. These rules help make sure the photos are clear and can be used for checking your identity.
How to Look
You need to have a neutral face. Keep your mouth closed and your eyes open. Don't smile or make any faces. Look straight at the camera.
Head and Eyes
Your head should be straight, looking right at the camera. Your ears should be visible, unless your hair covers them naturally. Your shoulders should also be straight to the camera. Don't tilt or turn your head.
Religious Clothing
France allows religious head coverings if they don't hide your face. Your face must be completely visible, and the covering can't make shadows on your face.
Glasses and Jewelry
If you wear glasses, they should not cause glare or hide your eyes. Don't wear sunglasses or tinted glasses. The French government says it's best to take off your glasses if you don't need them for medical reasons. Wear only a small amount of jewelry.
Special Notes
Children's Photos
Children's passport photos need to be the same size as adults. The child should be alone in the photo, with no hands or support showing. Babies should be photographed while lying on a light gray sheet, making sure their face is clear. No toys or pacifiers are allowed.
Medical Needs
If you have a medical condition that changes how you look, bring a recent doctor's note explaining it. This is for things like medical devices or bandages that show in the photo.
Passport Photo Quality: What You Need To Know
French passport photos need to be of a certain quality so they can work with digital and physical systems. Knowing these rules is key for a smooth application process.
Quality standard example
French passport photos must meet strict rules to work well for identification and keep your documents safe. These rules ensure good quality photos are used for checking identities.
Paper Quality
French passport photos must be printed on good quality photo paper with a matte or semi-matte finish. The paper should be at least 200 gsm. Although glossy paper is okay, semi-matte is better because it avoids glare during scanning.
Digital Photo Rules
For digital photos, they must be at least 300 DPI, 413 x 531 pixels, and between 100 KB and 500 KB. They must be JPEG files with as little compression as possible to keep the quality. The color should be sRGB for the best color.
Light and Color
The light should be even, with no shadows. The photo must show natural skin colors without any color issues. There should be no shadows on your face, like under your eyebrows or chin.
Clear and Sharp
The photo must be very sharp and clear. Your face must be in focus, with no blur or pixel issues. Details like your hair and eye color should be easy to see.
Use a Professional Photographer
Because the rules for French passport photos are so specific, it's best to use a professional photographer. Many photo shops in France know the rules and can make sure your photos are perfect. This helps save time and avoid getting your application rejected.
The French government is very strict about photo quality. Even small mistakes can cause problems. Photographers who know the rules can make sure your photos are perfect.
Common Questions
Here are some answers to common questions about French passport and ID photos.
Where can I get my French passport photos taken?
You can get French passport photos at: - Professional photo studios - Some drugstores or post offices - Online services that make sure your photos fit the rules. When getting your photo taken, always say you need the French passport format (35x45mm) because this is different from other photo sizes.
Can I use any photo size for a French passport?
No, French passport photos must be exactly 35x45 mm. If you use a different size, your application will be rejected. The government is very strict about the size to make sure it works with international standards.
How many photos do I need for a French passport?
For a French passport application, you need two identical color photos. It’s a good idea to have a few extra in case you need them for other papers. All the photos should be from the same session and meet the current rules.
Is the French passport photo size the same as a U.S. photo size?
No, French and U.S. passport photo sizes are different. French passport photos need to be 35x45 mm, while U.S. passport photos are 2x2 inches (51x51 mm). Using U.S. sized photos for a French passport will cause your application to be rejected.
Can I submit digital photos for my French passport?
Digital photos are accepted for online applications, but you need printed photos for your actual passport application. Digital photos must meet certain rules like 300 DPI resolution, 413 x 531 pixels, and the right JPEG format.
Can I wear glasses in my French passport photo?
You can wear prescription glasses, but it's best to take them off if you don't need them for medical reasons. If you wear them, the frames should not cover any part of your eyes, and there should be no glare. Sunglasses are not allowed.
Need Perfect French Passport Photos?
Getting your French passport or ID photos right doesn't have to be hard. Our service follows all the rules, so you can be sure your application will be successful.
Follows French Rules
Photos meet all government rules.
Different Photo Types
Get digital and printed photos.
Photo Quality is Guaranteed
Your photos will be accepted.
Digital Photos
- Good for online applications
- Get your photos right away
- Files are high quality (300 DPI)
Printed Photos
- Photos are printed professionally
- Photos are the correct size (35x45 mm)
- Quick delivery across France
This guide helps you understand all the rules for French passport and ID photos. We follow the current rules, but the final decision is made by the French government. For more information, you can also refer to the official French government website.