What background is required for a Cyprus passport photo?

The background must be plain white with no patterns, shadows, or objects visible.

Cyprus Passport Photo (40×50 mm) Requirements and Size Guide

Everything you need to know about Cyprus (Κύπρος) passport photo requirements, including exact dimensions, background color, and how to take a compliant Cypriot passport photo at home.

Cyprus Passport Photo Specifications

Requirement	Specification
Country	Cyprus (Κύπρος)
Document Type	Passport (Διαβατήριο) — EU Biometric Passport
Photo Size	40 × 50 mm (4 × 5 cm)
Resolution (DPI)	600
Head Size	~34 mm from chin to top of head (70–80% of photo)
Top Margin	~5 mm from top of photo to top of head
Background Color	Plain white
Printable	Yes — on matte photographic paper
Digital Photo Size	944 × 1181 pixels (at 600 DPI)
Color	Color only (black and white not accepted)
Recency	Taken within the last 6 months
Quantity	4 identical color photos
Issuing Authority	Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) / Civil Registry and Migration Department

Note: Unlike most EU countries that use 35×45 mm, Cyprus uniquely requires a 40×50 mm passport photo format. Make sure you use the correct size.

Don't worry about getting the perfect photo. Upload any photo taken at home, and our AI-powered tool will automatically crop to the correct 40×50 mm size, remove and replace the background with white, adjust the head size, and ensure your photo meets all requirements.

Detailed Cyprus Passport Photo Requirements

Cyprus issues EU biometric passports compliant with ICAO Doc 9303 standards, but with a unique 40×50 mm photo format specified by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 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 digital editing — do not apply beauty filters or digitally alter your appearance
Must reflect your current appearance
You need 4 identical color photos

Size and Dimensions

Photo size: exactly 40 × 50 mm (4 × 5 cm) — not the standard EU 35×45 mm
Your head should occupy 70–80% of the photograph
The distance from the top of the photo to the top of the head should be approximately 5 mm
Upper body (shoulders) must be visible

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, looking straight into the camera
No smiling, frowning, or squinting
Ensure your face is fully visible from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead

Background

Use a plain white background
No patterns, textures, or objects visible behind you
No shadows on your face or behind your head

Glasses

Glasses are NOT allowed in Cypriot passport photos. Remove all eyewear, including prescription glasses and sunglasses, 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 normal everyday clothing
Do not wear uniforms
Avoid wearing white tops that may blend with the white background

Source: Cyprus Ministry of Foreign Affairs — Passport Requirements

Make Passport/Visa Photo for Other Countries →

How to Take a Cyprus Passport Photo at Home

You don't need a professional studio. Follow these simple steps using your smartphone.

Use a Smartphone or Digital Camera

Any modern smartphone camera can take a passport-quality photo. Make sure the lens is clean and set to the highest resolution. Ask someone to take the photo for you — avoid selfies.

Find Good Lighting

Stand facing a window with natural daylight for even lighting. Avoid direct sunlight which creates harsh shadows.

Tip: Don't worry if your background isn't perfectly white. Our AI tool will automatically replace it with white.

Dress Appropriately

Wear normal everyday clothing. Avoid uniforms and white tops. Make sure your hair does not cover your eyes.

Pose Correctly

Stand about 4 feet (1.2 meters) in front of the camera. Keep your shoulders relaxed and head level — not tilted.

Maintain a Neutral Expression

Keep your face relaxed with a neutral expression. Both eyes open, mouth closed. No smiling or frowning.

Good and Bad Examples

Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable passport photos

Frequently Asked Questions

What size is a Cyprus passport photo?

A Cyprus passport photo must be exactly 40×50 mm (4×5 cm), which is different from the standard EU 35×45 mm format. This unique size is specified by the Cyprus Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Why is the Cyprus passport photo 40×50 mm instead of 35×45 mm?

Cyprus uses a unique 40×50 mm photo format for passports, unlike most other EU countries that use 35×45 mm. This is the official requirement from the Cypriot authorities and must be followed exactly.

Can I wear glasses in my Cyprus passport photo?

No. Glasses are not allowed in Cypriot passport photos. Remove all eyewear before taking the photo.

Can I take my Cyprus passport photo with my phone?

Yes! Upload your phone photo to PassportPhoto.help and our AI will automatically crop, resize, remove the background, and ensure it meets all 40×50 mm requirements.

What background color is required?

The background must be plain white. No patterns, objects, or shadows should be visible.

How many photos do I need for a Cyprus passport?

You need 4 identical color photos for your Cypriot passport application.

What happens if my photo is rejected?

If your passport photo doesn't meet the requirements, your application will be delayed. Using PassportPhoto.help ensures your photo meets all requirements before you submit.