Colombia ID Card Photo Specifications

Detailed Colombia ID Card Photo Requirements

The Registraduría Nacional del Estado Civil has specific requirements for Cédula de Ciudadanía photos. Below is a comprehensive guide to ensure your photo is accepted.

Photo Basics

• Your photo must be in color — black and white photos are not accepted
• Must be a recent photo, taken within the last 6 months
• The photo must be clear and in focus, with no blurriness or pixelation
• No filters or editing — do not apply social media filters or digitally alter your appearance
• Must reflect your current appearance
• Printed on matte (non-glossy) photo paper
• You need 3 identical color photos

Size and Dimensions

• Photo size: exactly 40 × 50 mm (4 × 5 cm)
• Your head must occupy 70–80% of the photo (from chin to top of head)
• The distance from the top of the photo to the top of the head should be approximately 2–3 mm
• Printed on matte photo-quality paper

Pose and Expression

• Face the camera directly — your head must not be tilted or turned
• Maintain a neutral facial expression with your mouth closed
• Both eyes must be open and clearly visible
• Ensure your face is fully visible from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead, and ear to ear

Background

• Use a plain white background
• No patterns, textures, or objects visible behind you
• No shadows on your face or behind your head
• Sufficient contrast between your face and the background

Glasses

Glasses are NOT allowed in Colombian ID card photos. This applies to all types of eyewear, including prescription glasses and sunglasses. Remove all glasses before taking the photo.

Head Coverings and Hats

• No hats or head coverings are allowed, unless worn daily for religious purposes
• If worn for religious reasons, your full face must still be visible from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead
• No headphones, earbuds, or wireless hands-free devices

Clothing

• Wear dark-colored clothing (recommended)
• Do not wear uniforms, except religious clothing worn daily
• Avoid wearing white tops that may blend with the white background

Source: Registraduría Nacional del Estado Civil — Colombia

How to Take a Colombia ID Card Photo at Home

You don't need a professional studio. Follow these simple steps to take a compliant Colombian ID card photo at home using your smartphone.

1

Use a Smartphone or Digital Camera

Any modern smartphone camera (iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, etc.) is more than capable of taking an ID-quality photo. Make sure the lens is clean and the camera is set to the highest resolution.

Place your phone on a tripod or ask someone to take the photo for you. Selfies tend to have the wrong angle and distortion.

2

Find Good Lighting

Stand facing a window with natural daylight for the best even lighting. Avoid direct sunlight, which creates harsh shadows. If using indoor lighting, use multiple light sources from different angles to eliminate shadows.

Tip: Don't worry if your background isn't perfectly white. Our AI tool will automatically remove and replace the background with the required white color.

3

Wear Dark-Colored Clothing

Dark-colored clothing is recommended for Colombian ID card photos, as it provides better contrast with the white background. This is especially important if you have light-colored hair or are bald.

Make sure your hair does not cover your eyes or cast shadows on your face.

4

Pose Correctly

Stand about 4 feet (1.2 meters) in front of the camera with your head facing directly forward. Keep your shoulders relaxed and your head level — not tilted. Ensure your entire face from chin to forehead is visible.

5

Maintain a Neutral Expression

Keep your face relaxed with a neutral expression. Both eyes must be open and your mouth closed. No smiling, frowning, or exaggerated expressions.

Good and Bad Examples of Colombia ID Card Photos

Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable ID card photos

Frequently Asked Questions