Brazilian Passport Photo Requirements for Children Under 5
If you need a Brazilian passport for a child under five, you must bring a printed photo to the appointment[1][2]. The tool above can help you prepare the correct size before you print.
Official Size Requirements for Young Children
When you apply for a Brazilian passport for a young child, the rules depend heavily on the age of the applicant[1][2]. For children under the age of five, the Polícia Federal requires you to bring a physical printed photo to your scheduled appointment[1][2]. The official size requested for this specific age group is 50 by 70 millimeters, which is the same as 5 by 7 centimeters[1]. You must prepare and bring one recent printed copy of this exact size to show the officer[1].
The official sources listed for this article do not specify a head-height measurement for this photo. The required size is 5x7 cm[1].
Background and Image Quality Standards
The photo must be recent, in color, on a white background, and without a date[1].
To meet these standards at home, try to use a plain white surface or a clean white sheet stretched out without wrinkles. Make sure there are no objects, shadows, or patterns visible behind the child. Good lighting is essential to keep the background bright white and to help keep the colors of the child's skin and clothing look natural and clear.
Specific Rules for Infants and Babies
Photographing babies and toddlers can be challenging, but the rules provide some flexibility for the youngest applicants[1]. Applicants under age 5 must bring one recent 5 by 7 centimeter printed photo to their appointment[1]. For newborn babies, photos with closed eyes may exceptionally be accepted by the authority due to the difficulties of keeping a newborn awake and alert[1].
A child under 5 must still attend the appointment[2]. Applicants aged 5 and older are photographed during their appointment[2].
Step-by-Step Guide to Taking the Photo at Home
You can easily take the required photo at home using a digital camera or a modern smartphone. Start by placing a clean white blanket, sheet, or poster board on the floor in a well-lit room. Lay your baby flat on their back on the white surface, making sure their head is centered and the lighting falls evenly across their face.
Stand directly above the child and hold your camera or phone steady at eye level, roughly one to one and a half meters away. Try to capture the child looking toward the camera with a natural expression if possible, remembering that closed eyes are exceptionally allowed for newborns[1]. Ask another person to help gently catch the child's attention so you can snap a clear picture quickly.
Preparing and Printing Your Photo Sheet
Once you capture a clear digital image, you need to prepare it for printing according to the official dimensions[1]. You can use the tool above to crop your photo to the exact 50 by 70 millimeter size quickly and accurately. The tool helps you place your cropped photo onto a standard 4 by 6 inch photo sheet so it is ready for a standard printer.
Take the prepared 4 by 6 inch file to a local photo printing kiosk or print it at home using a color inkjet printer on glossy photo paper. After printing, use scissors or a paper cutter to carefully cut out the 5 by 7 centimeter photo along the edges before you head to your appointment[1].
Common Reasons Photos Are Refused
The Polícia Federal may refuse your submitted photo if it fails to meet the basic official guidelines[1]. A common reason for refusal is an incorrect background, such as a wall with cream tones, patterns, or heavy shadows instead of a plain white background[1]. Always make sure your picture is a recent color photograph without any printed dates or digital alterations[1].
Another frequent issue is poor image clarity or blurriness caused by shaky hands or bad lighting. If the photo is out of focus or the child's face is obscured, the officer may ask you to return with a new, corrected photo. Taking a few extra test shots before you print can help you avoid delays at your appointment.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a photo for a child over 5?
What size photo do I need for a child under 5?
You need one recent 5 by 7 centimeter, or 50 by 70 millimeter, printed photo[1].
Can a newborn have closed eyes in the photo?
Yes, newborn photos with closed eyes may exceptionally be accepted[1].
Does the child have to go to the appointment?
Yes, the child must still attend the appointment in person even when you bring a printed photo[1].
Can I print the photo at a kiosk?
Yes, you can arrange the photo on a 4 by 6 inch sheet using the tool above and print it at a standard kiosk.