France Passport Photo 35mm x 45mm requirements

1. Format, Dimensions, & Framing

• Photo Dimensions: The cut size must be exactly 35 mm wide by 45 mm high.
• Facial Proportion: The face (measured from the bottom of the chin to the top of the skull, excluding hair volume) must measure between 32 mm and 36 mm. This means the head must occupy 70% to 80% of the frame.
• Alignment: The face must be perfectly centered vertically and horizontally.

2. Lighting, Background, & Contrast

• Background Color: The background must be completely seamless and a plain, light color (such as light gray or light blue). A pure white background is strictly forbidden.
• Lighting Quality: The photo must be evenly lit with sharp contrast. There must be no overexposure, underexposure, red-eye effects, or shadows cast on either the face or the background. Colorful, true-to-life tones are strongly recommended.

3. Head Position & Facial Expression

• Posture: The head must be completely straight, uncovered, and facing directly at the camera lens. Tilting or rotating the head is not permitted.
• Expression: The expression must be completely neutral. The mouth must be fully closed, and smiling or frowning is forbidden.
• Eyes & Gaze: You must look directly into the camera lens. Eyes must be wide open, fully visible, and free of any obstruction.

4. Hair, Headwear, & Accessories

• Hair: Hair must not cover the face or obscure any defining features. A hair fringe (bangs) is acceptable only if it remains entirely above the eyes. The ears should be uncovered/visible to ensure the sides of the face are completely clear.
• Head Coverings: Headwear of any kind—including hats, caps, scarves, or fashion headbands—is entirely prohibited. Religious head coverings are permitted exclusively if they leave the face completely unobstructed from the tip of the chin to the top of the forehead, leaving the full facial structure visible without shadows.
• Jewelry: Piercings and earrings are permitted only if they do not mask, alter, or blur any natural contours of your facial features.

5. Eyeglasses Policy

Wearing glasses is not mandatory for the photo, even if you wear them daily. If you choose to keep them on:

• The frames must be thin and cannot clip or obscure any part of your eyes or eyebrows.
• The lenses must be 100% clear and transparent (no color tinting or tinted transitions).
• There must be absolutely no flash reflection or glare on the glass surface.

References

• Public Service of Republic French: What type of photo should be provided for an identity document (passport, identity card, etc.)?
• National Agency for Secure Documents (ANTS) of Republic French: Identity photos