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

Everything you need to know about the 40×50mm Israel passport photo format (דרכון ישראלי), including exact dimensions, biometric standards, white background rules, and how to take a compliant Israeli passport photo at home.

How PassportPhoto.help works - Upload, Crop, Download

Israel Passport Photo Specifications (40×50mm)

RequirementSpecification
CountryIsrael (ישראל)
Document TypePassport (דרכון / Biometric Passport)
Photo Size40 × 50 mm (4 × 5 cm)
Resolution (DPI)600
Digital Photo Size945 × 1181 pixels (at 600 DPI)
Head Size70–80% of the photograph (~36–40 mm from chin to top of head)
Background ColorPlain white or light gray, uniform
PrintableYes — on high-quality photo paper
Digital for Online SubmissionYes — JPEG format
ColorColor only (black and white not accepted)
Number of Photos Required2 identical printed photos (at embassies abroad)
RecencyTaken within the last 3–6 months

Israel Passport Photo Size Diagram

Israel Passport Photo Size Diagram - 40x50mm portrait format
Key measurements: The photo must be exactly 40×50 mm (4×5 cm) in portrait orientation. Your head should occupy approximately 70–80% of the photograph. This format is an alternative to the standard 35×45mm format used by some Israeli consulates.
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 official requirements.

Detailed Israel Passport Photo Requirements (40×50mm)

The 40×50mm format is an alternative accepted by some Israeli embassies and consulates. All other biometric requirements remain the same as the standard 35×45mm format.

When to use this format: The 40×50mm format is accepted at select Israeli diplomatic missions. The most commonly used formats are 35×45mm (ICAO standard) and 50×50mm (used at many embassies abroad). Check with your specific consulate for their preferred photo size before applying.

Photo Basics

  • Your photo must be in color — black and white photos are not accepted
  • Must be a recent photo, taken within the last 3–6 months
  • The photo must be clear and in focus, with no blurriness or pixelation
  • No filters or digital alterations
  • No scanned or photocopied photos

Size and Dimensions

  • Photo size: exactly 40 × 50 mm (4 × 5 cm) in portrait orientation
  • Your head should occupy 70–80% of the photograph
  • Shoulders must be visible in the photo

Pose and Expression

  • Face the camera directly — full front view, head not tilted
  • Maintain a neutral, serious expression — mouth closed, no smiling
  • Both eyes must be open and clearly visible
  • Head must be square to the camera

Background

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

Glasses

Glasses are NOT permitted. Remove all eyewear including prescription glasses, sunglasses, and tinted lenses.

Head Coverings

  • Only permitted for religious reasons (kippah, hijab, turban, etc.)
  • Full face must be visible from chin to forehead
  • The forehead must be uncovered to show the shape of your face
  • Head covering must not cast shadows on your face

Hair and Clothing

  • Hair should be tucked behind ears, not covering face or eyes
  • Wear normal everyday clothing
  • Do not wear uniforms
  • Avoid white tops that blend with the background

Source: Gov.il — Biometric Photo Guide (PIBA)

Make Passport/Visa Photo for Other Countries →

How to Take an Israel Passport Photo at Home

Follow these simple steps to take a compliant Israel passport photo at home using your smartphone.

1

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. Place your phone on a tripod or ask someone to take the photo.

Taking passport photo with smartphone
2

Find Good Lighting

Stand facing a window with natural daylight for the best even lighting. Avoid direct sunlight. Use multiple light sources to eliminate shadows on your face.

Tip: Don't worry if your background isn't perfectly white. Our AI tool will automatically remove and replace the background with white.
Proper lighting setup
3

Dress Appropriately

Wear your normal everyday clothing. Avoid uniforms and white tops. If you wear religious head coverings daily, keep them on as long as your full face and forehead remain visible. Hair should be tucked behind ears.

Appropriate attire
4

Pose Correctly

Stand about 1.2 meters in front of the camera with your head facing directly forward. Keep your shoulders relaxed and your head level.

Correct posing
5

Maintain a Neutral Expression

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

Neutral expression

Good and Bad Examples of Israel Passport Photos

Good and bad examples of passport photos

Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable passport photos

Frequently Asked Questions

What size is the 40x50mm Israel passport photo?

The 40x50mm Israel passport photo is exactly 40 × 50 mm (4 × 5 cm) in portrait orientation. Your head should occupy approximately 70–80% of the photograph.

When should I use the 40x50mm format?

The 40x50mm format is an alternative accepted by some Israeli embassies and consulates. The standard format is 35×45mm. Check with your specific consulate for their accepted photo size before applying.

Can I wear glasses in my Israel passport photo?

No. Glasses are not permitted in Israeli biometric passport photos. Remove all eyewear including prescription glasses, sunglasses, and tinted lenses.

What background color is required?

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

Can I take my Israel passport photo with my phone?

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

Can I wear a head covering?

Head coverings are only permitted for religious reasons (kippah, hijab, turban, etc.). Your full face from chin to forehead must remain visible, and your forehead must be uncovered.

What happens if my photo is rejected?

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