Congo child passport photo (40×40 mm)

Official Photo Size and Dimensions

The embassy lists two 40×40 mm photos for a biometric passport application^[1]. Its published instructions do not give a different photo size for children^[1].

Print the photo at 40×40 mm^[1]. The published instructions do not set a head-height measurement^[1], so center your child's head in the square frame.

Because the dimensions are square, keep equal space on both sides of your child's head. Double-check your ruler before cutting out the physical copies to match this exact size^[1][2].

Background and Setting

The embassy's instructions call for a white background^[1]. Avoid patterns and shadows so your child's face and the background are clear.

When you take the photo, find a spot with even, natural light from a window to keep the lighting soft and clear. Do not use flash if it creates harsh shadows behind your child's head. Keep the camera at your child's eye level and stand about one to one and a half meters away to capture a clear image^[1][2].

If you do not have a plain white wall available at home, you can tape a smooth white bedsheet or large poster board to the wall. Make sure the sheet is pulled tight and has no wrinkles or folds that could cast shadows on the background.

Facial Expression and Pose

Getting the right pose is an important part of preparing your child's passport application photo^[1][2]. Your child must face directly toward the camera^[1][2].

The embassy says the subject must face the camera with an impassive expression^[1]. Keep your child's face directed straight ahead.

For infants or toddlers, you can have a helper stand just behind the camera to attract the child's attention and help them look straight ahead with a calm face. Avoid making loud noises that might startle the child or cause them to cry or open their mouth wide.

In-Person Application and Submission

Applicants must apply in person in the Republic of Congo^[1]. The embassy lists two printed photos for the biometric passport application^[1].

The embassy lists two printed photos for the biometric passport application and says applicants must apply in person in the Republic of Congo^[1].

Gather all required documents and your printed photos well before the day of your appointment so you are fully prepared for the process.

Rules for Infants and Young Children

Children under age three are exempt from fingerprint collection^[2].

The published instructions do not give a different photo size for infants^[1][2]. The embassy lists two 40×40 mm photos for a biometric passport application^[1].

If your baby is very young and cannot sit up alone, you can lay them flat on a plain white sheet on the floor or in a crib. Stand directly above them and take the picture from straight down while keeping their face centered and looking toward the lens.

Preparing and Printing Your Photos

You need to format and print your photo correctly before your appointment^[1][2]. You can use the tool above to crop your child's image and place it onto a standard 4x6-inch print sheet.

You can print this sheet at a photo kiosk and cut out the photos carefully. The embassy lists a 40×40 mm size^[1].

Use a sharp pair of scissors or a metal ruler and a craft knife to get clean, straight edges on your square prints.

Common Reasons for Photo Rejection

Even small errors can cause the issuing office to reject your child's passport photo^[1][2]. Common mistakes include tilting the child's head, casting shadows on the background, or failing to maintain an impassive expression^[1][2].

Make sure the lighting is bright enough so the face is clearly visible without dark spots^[1][2]. Double-check that the final print measures exactly 40×40 mm before you head to your appointment^[1][2].