Identity photo requirements.

Framing, background, lighting, facial position and expression determine whether a photo can be accepted.

The ePhoto code is used for driving licences, residence permits, DCEM and certain travel documents.

Control template French identity photo
35 mm
Portrait complying with the French identity photo format 32–36 mmface
45 mm
35 × 45 mmFinal size
32–36 mmChin to top of head
FrontHead straight and centred
Synthetic portrait provided for information.

Rejected photos

Identify the issue immediately.

Swipe the photos horizontally.

Possible reason for rejection

The photo must be correctly exposed, with no shadow on or behind the face. A dark area may cause rejection.

View the official rules
05

Uneven lighting

Place a soft light facing your face, with no marked shadow.

Non-compliant photo: Tilted head
Possible reason for rejection

The head must remain straight. A tilt does not meet the required pose and may cause the photo to be rejected.

View the official rules
01

Tilted head

Straighten your head and keep your shoulders level.

Non-compliant photo: Turned face
Possible reason for rejection

The face must look directly at the lens. Turning does not meet the required pose and may hide part of the facial features.

View the official rules
02

Turned face

Place your face facing the lens, without rotation.

Non-compliant photo: Smiling expression
Possible reason for rejection

The rules require a neutral expression and a closed mouth. Even a slight smile may therefore lead to rejection.

View the official rules
03

Smiling expression

Relax your face and keep your mouth closed.

Non-compliant photo: Closed eyes
Possible reason for rejection

The eyes must be open and fully visible. If they are closed or obscured, the photo does not meet the rule.

View the official rules
04

Closed eyes

Keep your eyes open and fully clear.

Non-compliant photo: Uneven lighting
Possible reason for rejection

The photo must be correctly exposed, with no shadow on or behind the face. A dark area may cause rejection.

View the official rules
05

Uneven lighting

Place a soft light facing your face, with no marked shadow.

Possible reason for rejection

The head must remain straight. A tilt does not meet the required pose and may cause the photo to be rejected.

View the official rules
01

Tilted head

Straighten your head and keep your shoulders level.

Compliance check

Visible criteria on the photo.

Adjusted framing : 35 × 45 mm
01
Adjusted framing35 × 45 mm
Expected

One common standard

The same requirements for everyone.

The check concerns the photo’s geometry and quality. It does not identify a person’s nationality, origin or identity.

All portraits shown on this page are synthetic.

Instructional example of a compliant photo, adult manInstructional example of a compliant photo, senior womanInstructional example of a compliant photo, young adult man

Photo check

Prepare your photo before the procedure.

Prepare my ePhoto