Identity Photo for Babies and Children
Since 2014, infants can no longer appear on their parents' passports. This official guide details the ISO/IEC 19794-5:2005 standards adapted for young children to ensure acceptance of your identity documents.
Legal Obligation (2014 Decree)
The practice of adding a minor child to a parent's passport has been abolished. Every child, regardless of age, must hold their own identity document (National ID or Passport). The photograph submitted must be recent and a good likeness.
6-Step Photography Guide
Background
Use a plain, light-coloured background (light blue or light grey). A white background is strictly prohibited by the French administration.
Positioning
The child must be alone. No hands (parent) or accessories (toy, dummy, blanket) may appear in the frame.
Lighting
Light must be uniform across the face. Avoid shadows behind the head or on the child's face.
Capture
The head must be straight, facing the lens. Eyes must look toward the camera, with no lateral tilt.
Cropping
The face must occupy between 70% and 80% of the total photo height (between 32 and 36 mm on the print).
Verification
Check sharpness and contrast. No overexposure or underexposure will be tolerated at the counter.
Flexibility: Adult vs Infant
| Criterion | Adult Rule | Infant Tolerance |
|---|---|---|
| Expression | Strictly neutral, mouth closed. | Neutral expression recommended, slight tolerance. |
| Eyes | Open and directed toward the lens. | Must be open (difficult for infants < 3 months). |
| Mouth | Closed. | Must be closed (often the cause of rejection). |
| Orientation | Perfectly face-on. | Strict face-on required. |
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Smiling alters the biometric features of the face. For a child, the mouth must be closed and the expression as neutral as possible to avoid rejection at the town hall.
COMPLIANCE EXAMPLES
Correct: neutral expression, plain light background.
Incorrect: Smile and white background prohibited.
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