Panamanian child passport photo (50.8×50.8 mm)

Understanding Size and Requirements

The official name for this travel document is the Pasaporte ordinario electrónico para menor de edad. It is issued by the Autoridad de Pasaportes de Panamá.

The authority publishes no single official size; the studio uses the size most often asked for. For applications abroad, you will typically need prints that measure 50.8 by 50.8 mm, or 2 by 2 inches^[1].

The instructions for applications abroad require two passport-size printed photos that meet ICAO requirements^[1]. Photo capture at participating enrollment offices may vary by location, so check with your office about its process.

The cited instructions do not set a head-height measurement or give a separate photo specification for infants. They list photo requirements for applications abroad and say that both parents must appear in person with identification for a minor’s application, subject to the stated exceptions^[1].

Background and Lighting Setup

For applications abroad, the official instructions call for a completely white background^[1]. Make sure there are no patterns, shadows, or objects behind your child. A blank wall or a smooth white bedsheet works well if pulled taut without wrinkles.

Good lighting helps avoid shadows on the wall or face. Natural light from a wide window works best, but keep the lighting even across the entire background. Position your child facing the light source directly so shadows fall behind them rather than across their face. Avoid using a harsh camera flash that might startle the child or create bright reflections.

Taking the Photo at Home

Lay a white sheet on a flat surface or use a plain white wall if your child is very small. Place your child flat on their back or have them sit upright depending on their age. Having a helper hold toys near the camera can help direct your child's attention forward.

Keep the camera or phone at eye level. Stand about one to one and a half meters away to prevent optical distortion of your child's facial features. If your baby is lying down, stand directly above them while holding the camera steady with both hands.

Take multiple pictures so you have options with different expressions. You can then use the tool above to crop the image to the standard 50.8 by 50.8 mm size.

What Your Child Should Wear

Getting a good photo of a young child takes patience and preparation. Try to schedule the photo session when your child is well-rested and in a cooperative mood. Feeding your baby shortly before taking the picture can help keep them calm and content.

Dress your child in normal, everyday clothing that contrasts well with a white background. Avoid white, cream, or very light shirts so your child does not blend into the background. Avoid clothing with large logos, words, or busy patterns that might distract from the face.

Printing and Cutting Your Photo

Many applications require physical prints rather than digital uploads. You can arrange your cropped photo onto a standard 4 by 6-inch template using the tool above.

Take the resulting digital file to a local photo kiosk and print it as an ordinary 4 by 6-inch glossy photo. Cut the individual photos carefully using sharp scissors or a clean paper cutter along the straight edges.

Handle the printed photos only by the extreme outer edges to avoid smudging the ink or leaving fingerprints on the surface.

Common Reasons for Refusal

For applications abroad, the instructions require a completely white background^[1]. Check the background and lighting carefully before taking the photo to avoid dark spots, wall textures, or shadows.

Blurry images caused by sudden movement or incorrect camera focus will cause application delays. Verify that your final print measures 50.8 by 50.8 mm before submitting your application documents^[1]. Make sure the child's face is clearly visible and not obscured by hands, toys, or hair.