Ecuador Passport Photo Specifications

Detailed Ecuador Passport Photo Requirements

Ecuador follows the ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) Document 9303 biometric photo standard. The Ecuadorian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Cancillería) requires compliant photos for all passport applications. Below is a comprehensive guide.

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 digitally alter your appearance
• Must reflect your current appearance

Size and Dimensions

• Photo size: exactly 35 × 45 mm (3.5 × 4.5 cm)
• Your head must occupy 70–80% of the photo height (32–36 mm from chin to top of head)
• Printed on matte or glossy photo-quality paper
• Digital version: 827 × 1063 pixels at 600 DPI

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 at the camera
• Keep your mouth closed — no smiling, no teeth showing
• Ensure your face is fully visible from chin to 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

Glasses

Glasses are NOT allowed in Ecuador passport photos. Please remove all glasses, including prescription 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
• No headphones, earbuds, or wireless hands-free devices

Clothing

• Wear normal everyday clothing
• Do not wear uniforms, except religious clothing worn daily
• Avoid wearing white tops that may blend with the white background

Children and Baby Photos

• The child must be the only person in the photo — no parent's hands or arms visible
• The child's eyes must be open and visible
• No toys, pacifiers, or other objects visible in the photo
• A plain white sheet may be used as a background for babies

Source: Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores y Movilidad Humana del Ecuador

How to Take an Ecuador Passport Photo at Home

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

1

Use a Smartphone or Digital Camera

Any modern smartphone camera is more than capable. 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 — avoid selfies.

2

Find Good Lighting

Stand facing a window with natural daylight. Avoid direct sunlight and harsh shadows.

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

3

Dress Appropriately

Wear normal everyday clothing. Avoid white tops that blend with the background. Remove glasses before taking the photo.

4

Pose Correctly

Stand about 1.5 meters (5 feet) from the camera. Head facing forward, shoulders relaxed, head level.

5

Maintain a Neutral Expression

Neutral expression, mouth closed, both eyes open. No smiling, no squinting.

Good and Bad Examples of Ecuador Passport Photos

Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable passport photos

Frequently Asked Questions