Macao Resident Identity Card Photo Specifications

Macao ID Card Photo Size Diagram

Detailed Macao ID Card Photo Requirements

The Macao Identification Services Bureau (DSI / 身份證明局) has specific requirements for Resident Identity Card photos. Below is a comprehensive guide to ensure your photo is accepted.

Photo Basics

• Your photo must be in color — black and white photos are not accepted
• Must be a recent photo, reflecting your current appearance
• The photo must be clear and in focus, with no blurriness or pixelation
• No filters or editing — do not apply social media filters or digitally alter your appearance
• No "red-eye" effect — ensure proper lighting to avoid this

Size and Dimensions

• Photo size: exactly 35 × 45 mm
• Your head should occupy approximately 70–80% of the photo
• Your head should measure approximately 34.5 mm from chin to top of head
• There should be approximately 4 mm of space between the top of your head and the upper edge of the photo
• Printed on matte or glossy photo-quality paper
• No white border around the photo

Pose and Expression

• Face the camera directly — your head must not be tilted or turned
• Maintain a neutral facial expression
• Both eyes must be open and clearly visible
• Keep your mouth closed
• Ensure your face is fully visible from the bottom of your chin to the top of your 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
• Balanced lighting and color throughout the photo

Glasses

Glasses are allowed in Macao ID card photos, but with restrictions:

• The frames must not obscure any part of your eyes
• Lenses must be clear — no glare or reflections
• Sunglasses and tinted lenses are not permitted

Head Coverings and Hats

• No hats or head coverings are allowed, unless worn for religious or medical reasons
• If worn for religious or medical reasons, your full face must still be visible from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead
• Both ears must be visible

Clothing

• Wear normal everyday clothing
• Do not wear uniforms, except religious clothing worn daily
• Avoid wearing white or very light-colored 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
• The photo must show the child's full face from chin to top of head

Source: Macao Government — Identity Card Services

How to Take a Macao ID Card Photo at Home

You don't need a professional studio. Follow these simple steps to take a compliant Macao Resident Identity Card photo at home using your smartphone.

1

Use a Smartphone or Digital Camera

Any modern smartphone camera (iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, etc.) is more than capable of taking an ID card-quality photo. 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 for you. Selfies tend to have the wrong angle and distortion.

2

Find Good Lighting

Stand facing a window with natural daylight for the best even lighting. Avoid direct sunlight, which creates harsh shadows. If using indoor lighting, use multiple light sources from different angles to eliminate shadows.

Tip: Don't worry if your background isn't perfectly white. Our AI tool will automatically remove and replace the background with the required white color.

3

Dress Appropriately

Wear your normal everyday clothing. Avoid uniforms and white tops that blend with the background. If you wear religious head coverings daily, you may keep them on as long as your full face is visible.

Make sure your hair does not cover your eyes or cast shadows on your face.

4

Pose Correctly

Stand about 1.5 meters in front of the camera with your head facing directly forward. Keep your shoulders relaxed and your head level — not tilted. Ensure your entire face from chin to forehead is visible.

5

Maintain a Neutral Expression

Keep your face relaxed with a neutral expression. Both eyes must be open and your mouth closed. Do not smile or frown. Ensure there are no shadows on your face.

Good and Bad Examples of Macao ID Card Photos

Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable ID card photos

Frequently Asked Questions