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Italy Passport Photo (35×40 mm — New Standard) Requirements and Size Guide

Everything you need to know about the 35×40mm Italy passport photo format, including exact dimensions, ICAO biometric standards, and which Italian consulates accept this format.

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Italy Passport Photo Specifications (35×40mm)

RequirementSpecification
CountryItaly (Italia)
Document TypePassport (Passaporto / Biometric)
Photo Size35 × 40 mm (3.5 × 4.0 cm)
Resolution (DPI)600
Digital Photo Size827 × 945 pixels (at 600 DPI)
Head Size28–32 mm from chin to top of head (70–80% of photo)
Top MarginApproximately 2.5 mm from top of photo to top of hair
Background ColorPlain white
PrintableYes — on matte photo-quality paper
ColorColor only
Number of Photos Required2 identical photos
RecencyTaken within the last 6 months

Size Diagram

Italy Passport Photo Size Diagram - 35x40mm
Key measurements: The photo must be exactly 35×40 mm (3.5×4.0 cm). Your head should occupy 70–80% of the photograph (~28–32 mm from chin to top of head). Top margin: approximately 2.5 mm.
Don't worry about getting the perfect photo. Upload any photo taken at home, and our AI will automatically crop to 35×40 mm, remove the background, and ensure your photo meets all ICAO requirements.

Detailed Requirements

When to use this format: The 35×40mm format is used by certain Italian consulates (Boston, Houston, Toronto, and others). The standard format is 35×45mm. Check with your specific consulate for their accepted photo size before applying.

Photo Basics

  • Must be in color, taken within the last 6 months
  • Clear, sharp, and in focus with high contrast
  • No filters, digital alterations, retouching, or manipulation
  • No scanned or photocopied photos

Pose and Expression

  • Face the camera directly — full front view
  • Neutral expression — mouth closed, no smiling
  • Both eyes open and clearly visible
  • Both earlobes visible, shoulders visible

Background

  • Plain white uniform background, no shadows, patterns, or objects

Glasses

Strongly recommended to be removed. Sunglasses and tinted lenses always prohibited. If wearing prescription glasses: no glare, eyes fully visible, no heavy frames.

Head Coverings

  • Only for religious reasons
  • Full face visible from chin to forehead and both sides

Clothing

  • Normal everyday clothing, no uniforms, avoid white tops

Source: Consulate of Italy in Houston — ICAO Photo Guidelines

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How to Take an Italy Passport Photo at Home

1

Use a Smartphone

Any modern smartphone camera works. Clean the lens, set highest resolution. Use a tripod or ask someone to take the photo.

Taking passport photo
2

Good Lighting

Face a window with natural daylight. Avoid direct sunlight. Our AI will fix the background for you.

Lighting setup
3

Dress Appropriately

Normal clothing, no uniforms, avoid white tops. Religious head coverings allowed if face fully visible.

Attire
4

Pose Correctly

Head facing forward, shoulders relaxed. Both earlobes visible. Hair tucked behind ears.

Posing
5

Neutral Expression

Eyes open, mouth closed, no smiling.

Expression

Good and Bad Examples

Good and bad examples

Frequently Asked Questions

What size is the 35x40mm Italy passport photo?

Exactly 35 × 40 mm (3.5 × 4.0 cm). Your head should occupy 70–80% (~28–32 mm from chin to top of head).

When should I use 35x40mm instead of 35x45mm?

The 35x40mm format is required by certain Italian consulates (Boston, Houston, Toronto). The standard is 35x45mm. Check with your specific consulate.

Can I wear glasses?

Strongly recommended to remove them. Sunglasses and tinted lenses always prohibited.

What background is required?

Plain white, uniform, no shadows or patterns.

Can I take it with my phone?

Yes! Upload to PassportPhoto.help and our AI will crop to 35×40mm and ensure compliance.

How many photos do I need?

2 identical printed photos for your consulate appointment.