Compliant identity photo: official criteria checklist
This technical reference details the 25 mandatory compliance criteria for French identity documents (National ID, Passport). Any failure to meet one of these points results in systematic administrative rejection.
Strict
Zero tolerance on facial biometrics.
25 Points
Spread across 6 regulatory categories.
42%
Average rejection rate for non-compliance.
Format & Dimensions
| Technical criterion | ISO Specification | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Photo width | 35 mm | |
| Photo height | 45 mm | |
| Face height (chin-crown) | 32 to 36 mm (70-80% of image) | |
| Eye centre positioning | Strict horizontal centring | |
| Face centring | Centred ± 1 mm |
Uniform lighting, plain background, neutral expression.
Cast shadows, tilted head, non-neutral background.
Main administrative rejection reasons
Background too dark or shadows present
The background must be a solid colour, light grey or light blue. White is forbidden in France as it blends with the paper support.
Reflections on glasses lenses
If you wear glasses, your eyes must be perfectly visible. No reflection or thick frame may obscure the eyes.
Hair covering ears or face
The face outline must be clear. Strands of hair in front of the eyes are strictly forbidden.
TECHNICAL QUALITY
| Sharpness & Contrast | REQUIRED |
| No creases or stains | REQUIRED |
| No red eyes | FORBIDDEN |
EXPRESSION & POSTURE
| Neutral expression | REQUIRED |
| Mouth closed | REQUIRED |
| Eyes toward lens | REQUIRED |
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