Identity photo format and size — official specifications by country
The technical specifications governing facial image capture are governed by Doc 9303 of ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization). This document defines global interoperability standards for machine-readable travel documents (MRTD).
FACE PROPORTIONS
The face height must measure between 32 and 36 mm from the bottom of the chin to the top of the skull (excluding hair).
French Standard (ANTS)
| CHARACTERISTIC | SPECIFICATION |
|---|---|
| Paper Format | 35 x 45 mm |
| Face Zone | 32–36 mm (70%–80%) |
| Digital Resolution | 600 DPI (min. 413 x 531 pixels) |
| File Size | Less than 250 KB |
| ePhoto Type | JPEG Format (ISO/IEC 19794-5) |
REGULATORY NOTICE
Any photo showing a crease, stain or overexposure will be systematically rejected by prefecture services during digitisation.
International Format Comparison
| COUNTRY / ZONE | DIMENSIONS (MM) | BACKGROUND | VALIDITY |
|---|---|---|---|
| France (EU) | 35 x 45 | Light grey or Light blue | Passport, National ID, Licence |
| United States | 51 x 51 (2"x2") | White only | Visa, Passport |
| China | 33 x 48 | White | Visa |
| India | 51 x 51 | White | Passport / Visa |
| United Kingdom | 35 x 45 | Cream grey | ICAO Standard |
| Canada | 50 x 70 | White | Passport |
| Brazil | 30 x 40 | White | Local ID |
| Japan | 35 x 45 | Light blue / White | ICAO Standard |
| Vietnam | 40 x 60 | White | Visa |
Digital Submission Procedure (ePhoto)
CAPTURE
Use an ISO-certified device. Avoid uncalibrated mobile cameras.
FRAMING
Respect 5mm margins above the skull and 70% facial occupation.
EID VALIDATION
The ANTS system generates a 22-character code after image validation.
SIGNATURE
The digital signature must be affixed on a tablet at the time of the photo.
Measurement Tolerances
The facial recognition software used by State services accepts an error margin of ±1.0mm on the overall format, but remains strict on pupillary distance (min 120 pixels).
ISO/IEC Standards
Summary of ISO/IEC 19794-5 specifications for interoperability of biometric data.
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