Mexico Passport & Visa Photo Requirements & Specifications Guide
Understanding Mexican passport photo requirements doesn't have to be complicated. This comprehensive guide covers all specifications set by the Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores (SRE), making your application process smooth and successful. From exact measurements to essential quality standards, we've detailed everything you need to know about Mexican passport photos.
Create Your Mexican Passport PhotoEssential Mexican Passport Photo Requirements
Perfect Mexican passport photo example
Mexican passport and visa photos must meet precise specifications set by the Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores (SRE). These requirements ensure your photos work effectively with both digital and physical identification systems while maintaining the security standards of Mexican travel documents.
Your photos must be recent – taken within the last six months – to accurately represent your current appearance. For Mexican passport applications, you'll typically need two identical color photographs. These photos must be professionally printed on high-quality photo paper to meet the government's stringent requirements.
Mexican Passport Photo Dimensions & Measurements
Mexican passport photo dimensions follow precise standards established by the SRE (Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores) to ensure consistency with international identification systems. Here's a detailed breakdown of the official measurements:
39 x 31mm (3.9 x 3.1 cm), a standard size that's compatible with both Mexican and international identification systems. This format ensures your photo will be accepted for passports, visas, and other official Mexican documents.
Your head height (measured from chin to crown) should be between 22-35mm, taking up approximately 70-80% of the vertical space. This proportion ensures your facial features are clearly captured while maintaining compatibility with biometric scanning systems.
Your face must be perfectly centered in the frame, with equal spacing on both sides. Eyes should be positioned between 50-70% of the photo's height from the bottom, ensuring optimal alignment for biometric processing.
💡 Pro Tip: Note that Mexican passport photos have different dimensions than U.S. passport photos (2x2 inches). Don't confuse the two standards - Mexican requirements specifically call for 39x31mm photos, which are also known as the European/International format.
Size and measurement guide
Background Requirements
✓ Perfect white background
The background of your Mexican passport photo is crucial for meeting official requirements. Understanding these specifications will help ensure your application isn't delayed:
Color and Texture
Mexican passport photos require a plain white background. The white must be pure - not off-white or light grey. The background should provide clear contrast with your facial features and clothing to ensure optimal photo quality.
Lighting and Shadows
The background must be evenly lit without any shadows or patterns. Professional photography studios typically have the correct lighting setup to eliminate shadows and ensure uniform illumination across the entire photo.
Contrast Requirements
Your clothing should contrast with the white background. Dark or medium-colored attire is recommended to create clear definition between your figure and the background. Avoid wearing white or very light colors that might blend with the background.
⚠️ Important: Mexican consulates and passport offices are particularly strict about background requirements. Photos with shadows, patterns, or off-white backgrounds will be rejected. When having your photo taken, specifically request a Mexican passport photo to ensure the correct background specifications.
Personal Appearance Guidelines for Mexican Passport Photos
Your Mexican passport photo is your official identification worldwide. Following these appearance guidelines ensures your photo will be accepted by the SRE (Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores).
Perfect pose example
Mexican passport photos must follow strict appearance guidelines that ensure consistency with international standards while meeting specific SRE requirements. These guidelines are designed to produce clear, identifiable photos that work effectively with both digital and physical verification systems.
Facial Expression
A neutral expression is mandatory for Mexican passport photos. Your mouth must be closed naturally, and eyes must be open and clearly visible. The SRE specifically prohibits smiling or any expression that alters your natural face shape. Both eyes must look directly at the camera.
Head Position and Gaze
Your head must be straight and facing directly at the camera. Mexican requirements specify that both ears should be visible (unless naturally covered by hair), and your shoulders should be square to the camera. No tilting or turning of the head is permitted.
Religious Attire
Mexico respects religious head coverings in passport photos, provided they don't obscure facial features. Your face must be fully visible from the bottom of your chin to your natural hairline, and the covering should not cast shadows on your face.
Eyewear and Accessories
If you wear prescription glasses, they must not create glare or reflections. Frames cannot obscure your eyes. Sunglasses and tinted lenses are not permitted. The SRE recommends removing glasses unless medically necessary. Jewelry should be minimal and not distracting.
Special Circumstances
Children's Photos
Mexican passport photos for children follow the same size requirements as adults. The child must be the only subject in the photo, with no visible hands or support. Infants should be photographed while lying on a white sheet, ensuring their face is clearly visible and centered. No toys or pacifiers are allowed.
Medical Exceptions
The SRE provides accommodations for medical conditions that affect appearance or ability to meet standard requirements. You must provide a recent medical certificate explaining the condition. This applies to cases involving medical devices, bandages, or other necessary medical items visible in the photo.
Photo Quality Standards: Technical Specifications
Mexican passport photos must meet specific technical requirements established by the SRE to ensure compatibility with both digital and physical verification systems. Understanding these specifications is crucial for application success.
Quality standard example
The Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores (SRE) maintains strict technical standards for passport photos to ensure compatibility with international identification systems and maintain document security. These requirements ensure consistent, high-quality images for both digital and physical verification processes.
Print Quality Standards
Mexican passport photos must be printed on high-quality photo paper with a semi-matte or matte finish. The paper should be at least 250 GSM (grams per square meter). While glossy paper is acceptable, semi-matte is preferred as it reduces glare and reflection during scanning.
Digital Requirements
For digital submissions, photos must meet these specifications: minimum resolution of 300 DPI, dimensions of 420x540 pixels, and file size between 100KB and 1MB. Files must be in JPEG format with minimal compression to maintain quality. The color profile should be sRGB for consistent reproduction.
Lighting and Color Accuracy
Lighting must be even and diffused to eliminate shadows. Photos should accurately represent natural skin tones without color casts or oversaturation. The SRE requires consistent illumination across all facial features, with no shadows under eyebrows, nose, or chin.
Image Clarity and Focus
Photos must be perfectly sharp and clear. All facial features should be distinct, with no blur, pixelation, or digital noise. The entire face must be in focus, and the image should show fine details like individual hairs and eye color clearly.
Professional Photography Recommendation
Given the precise nature of Mexican passport photo requirements, we strongly recommend using a professional photography service familiar with current SRE standards. Many Mexican consulates and passport offices have on-site photo services available, ensuring your photos meet all requirements. This can save time and prevent rejection due to technical issues.
The SRE is particularly strict about photo quality standards, and even minor deviations can lead to application delays. Professional photographers in Mexico are typically well-versed in these requirements and can provide guaranteed compliance.
Common Questions About Mexican Passport Photos
Find answers to frequently asked questions about Mexican passport and visa photos
Does the Mexican consulate take passport photos?
Yes, most Mexican consulates offer passport photo services on-site. While this service is convenient and guarantees compliance with SRE requirements, it may have longer wait times and higher costs compared to external services. It's recommended to check with your local consulate about availability and pricing before visiting.
Where can I get Mexican passport photos taken?
You can get Mexican passport photos at several locations: - Mexican consulates and passport offices - Professional photography studios - Major pharmacy chains (ensure they offer Mexican passport format) - Select post offices - Our online service with verified compliance Always specify you need Mexican passport format (39x31mm) as it differs from U.S. passport photos.
Can I use any size photo for a Mexican passport?
No, Mexican passport photos must be exactly 39x31mm in size. This is different from U.S. passport photo size (2x2 inches). Using incorrect dimensions will result in automatic rejection. The SRE is strict about these measurements as they ensure compatibility with international standards and biometric systems.
How many photos are needed for a Mexican passport?
For a Mexican passport application, you typically need 2 identical color photos. However, it's recommended to get 4 copies as extras may be needed for visa applications or other documents. All photos must be from the same session and meet current SRE specifications.
Is Mexican passport size the same as US photo size?
No, Mexican and U.S. passport photo sizes are different. Mexican passport photos must be 39x31mm (3.9x3.1cm), while U.S. passport photos are 2x2 inches (51x51mm). Using U.S. format photos for a Mexican passport application will result in rejection.
Can I submit digital photos for my Mexican passport?
Digital photos are accepted for online pre-registration but printed photos are required for the actual passport application. Digital submissions must meet specific technical requirements: 300 DPI minimum resolution, dimensions of 420x540 pixels, and proper JPEG format.
Can I wear glasses in my Mexican passport photo?
While prescription glasses are permitted, the SRE recommends removing them unless medically necessary. If worn, frames must not cover eyes, and there should be no glare or reflections on lenses. Sunglasses or tinted lenses are strictly prohibited.
How long does it take to get passport photos at a Mexican consulate?
Photo services at Mexican consulates typically take 10-15 minutes, but wait times can vary significantly based on location and time of day. Morning appointments usually have shorter wait times. Some consulates require appointments for photo services.
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This comprehensive guide is designed to help you understand and meet Mexican passport and visa photo requirements. While we maintain strict compliance with current SRE standards, final acceptance is at the discretion of Mexican authorities.