Preparing Your Burundian National Identity Card Photo
The application procedure requires two passport-format photos for a Carte Nationale d’Identité[1]. The authority does not publish exact photo dimensions[1].
Understanding the Size and Measurements
The authority requires two passport-format photos but does not publish exact dimensions[1]. A 35 x 45 mm crop (about 1.38 x 1.77 inches) is a practical option, not an official measurement. Check the required size with your local office before printing.
The authority provides no exact photo measurements or head height specifications[1]. Since there are no strict official numbers for head height, aim to keep your head centered and sized proportionally within the frame.
Background and Lighting Setup
The official procedure requires two passport-format photos and does not state a background color or exact dimensions[1]. Because the guidelines do not specify a background color, choosing a plain, light-colored wall works best for clarity. Make sure there are no distracting patterns or objects behind you.
Good lighting helps the office staff see your features clearly. Face a bright window to light your face evenly, and avoid standing directly under harsh overhead lights that cast deep shadows under your nose or chin.
Camera Position and How to Take the Photo
Taking your own photo at home is simple if you follow a few basic steps. Place your camera or smartphone on a steady surface or tripod at your exact eye level. Stand about one to one and a half meters away from the camera lens to avoid distorting your facial features.
Ask someone else to take the picture for you if possible, as this makes it much easier to frame your head and shoulders correctly. Check that your entire head, including your hair and chin, fits inside the preview frame with some space around it.
Glasses, Headwear, and Facial Expression
The official rules leave details about whether you can wear glasses unspecified[1]. Similarly, headwear permissions are not explicitly detailed in the official guidelines[1]. There are also no set rules requiring a neutral expression or a closed mouth[1].
Even though these rules are unspecified, keeping a natural, relaxed look with a closed mouth is generally a safe practice for any official identification document. If you wear prescription glasses daily, you may choose to keep them on, but make sure there is no glare on the lenses from lights or windows.
Age Rules and Eligibility
The national identity card is issued to Burundian citizens starting from age 16[1]. Because the document has this specific age restriction, no infant rule applies to this application process[1].
If you are applying for a young adult turning 16, they must follow the standard adult photo procedures and supply two printed copies[1]. Children below the age of 16 do not receive this specific identity card, so you do not need to worry about baby or toddler photo rules for this application[1].
Printing and Preparing Your Photo Sheet
The procedure requires two passport-format photos[1]. Follow your local office’s instructions for submitting them.
You can use the tool above to place your cropped 35 x 45 mm image onto a standard 4x6-inch photo sheet layout. Take this digital file to a local print kiosk or photo shop to print it out as an ordinary photograph. Once printed, use scissors or a paper cutter to carefully cut out your two separate photos along the edges.
Common Reasons Photos Are Refused
Check your photos under good light to make sure your face is sharp and clear. The official procedure does not list photo rejection reasons.
Since the authority does not publish exact dimensions, check the required size with your local office before printing[1].
Frequently asked questions
What is the official photo size for a Burundian national ID?
The authority publishes no single official size, but 35 x 45 mm (1.38 x 1.77 in) is a common practical crop used by studios[1].
Do I need to submit digital files or printed photos?
You must supply two passport-format printed photos for your application[1].
What background color is required?
The official procedure does not state a background color or exact dimensions[1].
Are infants required to have this identity card?
The identity card is issued to Burundian citizens from age 16, so no infant rule applies[1].
Are glasses and headwear allowed?
The official rules leave details about glasses and headwear unspecified[1].