France Passport Photo Specifications

Detailed France Passport Photo Requirements

The French government (ANTS — Agence Nationale des Titres Sécurisés) follows the ISO/IEC 19794-5:2005 biometric standard for passport photos. France has a unique requirement: white backgrounds are strictly prohibited.

Photo Basics

• Your photo should be in color — color is strongly recommended
• 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 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
• Chin-to-crown distance: approximately 32–36 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, looking straight at the camera
• Keep your mouth closed — no smiling or teeth showing

Background

• Use a plain light blue or light grey background
• White is STRICTLY PROHIBITED — this is a unique French requirement
• No patterns, shadows, or objects visible behind you
• Your face, hair, and clothes must contrast clearly with the background

Glasses

Glasses are permitted but only with thin frames. If you wear glasses:

• Only thin frames are allowed — no thick or heavy frames
• No tinted or coloured lenses
• No glare or reflections on the lenses
• Your eyes must be fully visible through the lenses

Head Coverings and Hats

• Head must be bare — no hats, scarves, or headbands
• No exceptions for religious reasons (per ANTS/service-public.gouv.fr)
• No headphones, earbuds, or wireless hands-free devices

Hair

• Hair must not obscure your face
• Bangs are acceptable if they don't cover your eyes
• Ears must be visible and unobstructed

Clothing

• Wear normal everyday clothing
• Do not wear uniforms
• Avoid colors that blend with the background (light blue or light grey)

Children and Baby Photos

• Same 35 × 45 mm format applies to children
• Children must be photographed alone
• No toys, pacifiers, or other people visible
• Babies may be laid on a light-coloured cloth as background

Source: ANTS — Identity Photo Requirements

How to Take a France Passport Photo at Home

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

1

Use a Smartphone or Digital Camera

Any modern smartphone camera works. Clean the lens and use the highest resolution. Use a tripod or ask someone to take the photo. Avoid selfies as they tend to have the wrong angle.

2

Find Good Lighting

Stand facing a window with natural daylight for even lighting. Avoid direct sunlight which creates harsh shadows. If using indoor lighting, use multiple light sources.

Important for France: Use a LIGHT BLUE or LIGHT GREY background. White backgrounds are strictly prohibited for French passport photos. Don't worry if your background isn't perfect — our AI tool will automatically replace it with a compliant color.

3

Dress Appropriately

Wear normal everyday clothing. Avoid uniforms and colors that blend with the light blue or light grey background. If you wear glasses, make sure they have thin frames with no tinted lenses.

4

Pose Correctly

Stand about 1.5 meters from the camera. Face directly forward, head level, shoulders relaxed. Make sure both head and shoulders are visible in the frame. Your head must be bare — no hats or head coverings.

5

Maintain a Neutral Expression

Keep your expression neutral with mouth closed and both eyes open. Look straight at the camera. No smiling or exaggerated expressions. Ensure your ears are visible and hair does not obscure your face.

Good and Bad Examples of France Passport Photos

Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable passport photos

Frequently Asked Questions