Ghana Card (National ID) Photo (35×45 mm) Requirements and Size Guide

Everything you need to know about Ghana Card (National Identification Card) photo requirements, including exact dimensions, background color, pose rules, and how to take a compliant photo at home.

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Ghana Card Photo Specifications

RequirementSpecification
CountryGhana
Document TypeNational ID Card (Ghana Card)
Photo Size35 × 45 mm (1.37 × 1.77 inches)
Resolution (DPI)600
Face Height32–36 mm from chin to crown of head (70–80% of photo)
Background ColorPlain white
PrintableYes — on matte or glossy photo-quality paper
Digital Photo SizeMinimum 600 × 600 pixels (recommended: 827 × 1063 pixels at 600 DPI)
ColorColor only (black and white not accepted)
RecencyTaken within the last 6 months
Quantity2 identical photos
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 35×45 mm size, remove and replace the background with white, adjust the face size, and ensure your photo meets all requirements.

Detailed Ghana Card Photo Requirements

The Ghana Card is the national identity card issued by the National Identification Authority (NIA) to all Ghanaian citizens and legally resident foreign nationals. Below is a comprehensive guide to the photo requirements.

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 proper contrast
  • No filters or editing — do not digitally alter your appearance
  • Must reflect your current appearance

Size and Dimensions

  • Photo size: exactly 35 × 45 mm (1.37 × 1.77 inches)
  • Your face must measure between 32–36 mm from chin to crown of head
  • Your face must cover 70–80% of the photo height
  • The face must be centered in the photo

Pose and Expression

  • Face the camera directly — head not tilted or turned
  • Maintain a neutral facial expression with mouth closed
  • Both eyes must be open and clearly visible
  • No smiling, frowning, or exaggerated expressions

Background

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

Glasses

Dark glasses and sunglasses are not allowed. It is recommended to remove all eyeglasses before taking the photo.

Head Coverings and Hats

  • No hats or head coverings, unless worn daily for religious purposes
  • If worn for religious reasons, your full face must still be visible

Clothing

  • Wear normal everyday clothing
  • Avoid wearing white tops that blend with the white background
Note: The National Identification Authority (NIA) typically captures your photograph on-site during Ghana Card registration. However, having a compliant passport-size photo ready can help with online pre-registration or when a physical photo is required for specific processes.

Source: National Identification Authority (NIA) — FAQs

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How to Take a Ghana Card Photo at Home

Follow these simple steps to take a compliant Ghana Card photo at home using your smartphone.

1

Use a Smartphone or Digital Camera

Any modern smartphone camera can take an ID card-quality photo. Make sure the lens is clean and set to highest resolution. Place your phone on a tripod or ask someone to take the photo.

Taking ID card photo with smartphone
2

Find Good Lighting

Stand facing a window with natural daylight. Avoid direct sunlight. Use multiple light sources to eliminate shadows.

Tip: Our AI tool will automatically replace the background with white.
Proper lighting for ID card photo
3

Dress Appropriately

Wear normal everyday clothing. Avoid white tops that blend with the background.

Appropriate attire for ID card photos
4

Pose Correctly

Stand about 1.5 meters in front of the camera. Head facing directly forward, shoulders relaxed, head level. Entire face visible and centered.

Correct posing for ID card photo
5

Maintain a Neutral Expression

Neutral expression, both eyes open, mouth closed. No smiling or frowning. Look straight into the camera.

Neutral expression for ID card photo

Good and Bad Examples of Ghana Card Photos

Good and bad examples of ID card photos

Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable ID card photos

Frequently Asked Questions

What size is a Ghana Card photo?

A Ghana Card photo must be exactly 35×45 mm (1.37×1.77 inches), the standard passport-size format. Your face must measure between 32 and 36 mm from chin to crown, covering 70–80% of the photo.

Does the NIA capture the photo during Ghana Card registration?

Yes. The National Identification Authority (NIA) typically captures your photograph on-site during Ghana Card registration. However, having a compliant passport-size photo ready can help with online pre-registration or other identification processes.

What background color is required for a Ghana Card photo?

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

Can I wear glasses in my Ghana Card photo?

No. Dark glasses and sunglasses are not allowed. It is recommended to remove all eyeglasses before taking the photo.

Can I take my Ghana Card photo with my phone?

Yes! Simply upload a smartphone photo to PassportPhoto.help and our AI will automatically crop, resize, remove the background, and ensure it meets all requirements.

Can I smile in my Ghana Card photo?

No. You must maintain a neutral facial expression with your mouth closed and both eyes open.

Is the Ghana Card photo the same as the passport photo?

Yes. Ghana uses the same 35×45 mm passport-size photo standard for both the Ghana Card and passport applications. The requirements for background, expression, and pose are the same.

What happens if my photo is rejected?

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