France Passport Photo Size and Requirements
A French passport or ID card photo must be 35x45mm, with face height (chin to crown) between 32mm and 36mm, on a uniform, light-colored background - light grey or light blue. Notably, service-public.fr states plainly that a white background is not accepted ("le fond blanc est interdit").
This tool crops your photo to exactly 35x45mm at 300 DPI to match the spec; use the background-color tools here to get a light grey or blue background rather than white.
| Photo size | 35 × 45 mm (1.4" × 1.8") |
|---|---|
| Resolution | 300 DPI (413 × 531 px) |
| Max file size | 150 KB |
| Format | JPG |
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Can you use AI background removal for this photo?
We have not found a published rule specifically banning background removal or other AI editing for this document as of this writing - but policies are changing across the industry, and getting it wrong can mean a rejected application. Always check the official source below for the current rule before using background removal, and when in doubt, use only cropping and resizing.
General photo rules
These apply broadly, but always confirm the specifics for this document on the official source below.
- Neutral facial expression, mouth closed, both eyes open
- Face the camera directly, with no head tilt
- No hats or head coverings, except for religious or medical reasons - your full face must still be visible
- A recent photo, typically taken within the last 6 months
- A plain, evenly lit background with no shadows, patterns, or other people or objects
- Glasses are discouraged or restricted by a growing number of countries due to glare - check the official source below for this document specifically
How to take this photo at home
- Stand about 3-6 feet in front of a plain, light-colored wall with no shadow falling behind you.
- Use even, natural light facing you - a window works well. Avoid harsh overhead light, backlighting, or a direct flash, which all cast shadows.
- Hold the camera at eye level, at arm’s length or propped on a stand, and look straight into it.
- Keep a neutral expression, mouth closed, both eyes open, and remove hats or sunglasses.
- Take a few shots, then upload the sharpest one here - cropping to the exact size, and background removal if you use it, are handled automatically.
Many governments accept a digital photo upload for online applications as well as a printed photo for in-person or mail applications - check the official source below for which your application needs. This tool exports both a single photo file and a 4x6 print sheet, so either way you're covered.
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Frequently asked questions
What size is a French passport photo?
35mm wide by 45mm tall, with face height (chin to crown) between 32mm and 36mm, per service-public.fr, France's official government information site.
Can the background be white?
No - service-public.fr explicitly states a white background is not accepted ("le fond blanc est interdit"). Use a uniform light grey or light blue background instead.
Can I wear glasses?
Glasses aren't mandatory, but if worn, the frames must not be thick or cover the eyes, and lenses must be uncolored, untinted, and free of reflections.
Can I wear a head covering?
The official guidance we verified says the head must be bare - no hat, scarf, or headband. We didn't find an explicit religious exception in this particular source (several other countries this tool supports do publish one); check current guidance for your specific situation before applying.
Does the photo have to be taken by a professional?
Official guidance states the photo must come from an authorized professional or an approved photo booth, not a self-taken photo. This tool can still get your framing, size, and background exactly right - check current rules for your specific application channel on whether a compliant self-produced photo is accepted, since this can vary.
Source: Service-public.fr (French Government). Requirements change over time - always confirm the current specification before submitting.