Pakistan National ID Card Photo Specifications

Detailed Pakistan National ID Card Photo Requirements

The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) of Pakistan has strict requirements for CNIC and NICOP photos. Below is a comprehensive guide to ensure your photo is accepted.

1. 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 no blurriness or pixelation
• No filters or editing — do not apply social media filters or digitally alter your appearance
• Must reflect your current appearance

2. Size and Dimensions

• Photo size: exactly 35 × 45 mm (1.38 × 1.77 inches)
• Your head should occupy 70–80% of the photo area
• Head height (from chin to top of head): approximately 32–36 mm
• Top margin above the head: approximately 3–5 mm
• Digital photo for NADRA online system: 350 × 467 pixels in JPEG format
• Printed on matte or glossy photo-quality paper

3. Background Requirements

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

4. 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
• Ensure your face is fully visible from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead, and ear to ear
• Both edges of your face must be clearly visible

5. Glasses Policy

6. Head Coverings

• No hats or head coverings are allowed, unless worn daily for religious purposes
• If worn for religious reasons, your full face must still be visible from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead
• The head covering must not cast shadows on your face
• No headphones, earbuds, or wireless hands-free devices

7. Clothing

• Wear normal everyday clothing
• Do not wear uniforms, except religious clothing worn daily
• Avoid wearing white tops that may blend with the white background
• Choose clothing that contrasts well with the white background

8. CNIC and NICOP Specific Information

• CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card) is mandatory for all Pakistani citizens aged 18 and above residing in Pakistan
• NICOP (National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis) is issued to Pakistani citizens living abroad for identification purposes
• Photos are typically captured on-site at NADRA centers during the registration process
• However, you can prepare a compliant digital photo in advance for online applications through the NADRA website or PAK-IDENTITY portal
• The same white background, no glasses, neutral expression, and head covering rules apply for both CNIC and NICOP photos

Source: NADRA — National Database and Registration Authority

How to Take a Pakistan National ID Card Photo at Home

You don't need a professional studio. Follow these simple steps to take a compliant Pakistan National ID 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 (5 feet) 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. No smiling, frowning, or exaggerated expressions.

Good and Bad Examples of Pakistan National ID Card Photos

Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable ID card photos

Frequently Asked Questions