Costa Rica

Costa Rican national ID card photo (40×45 mm)

Required size: 40×45 mm (1.57×1.77 in). Your photo is processed on your device.

The issuing authority doesn't publish one photo size for this document, so the studio uses the size most often asked for. Check the current rules with the authority or organisation that issues it before you apply.

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Upload a portrait from your phone or take one with your camera.

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Photo requirements

  • Size: 40×45 mm (1.57×1.77 in)
  • Head size: not set by the authority
  • Background: White
  • Privacy: Processed on your device; the photo is not uploaded

Background

Put an accepted colour behind you. This happens on your device.

Download or print

Download a single photo, or a sheet with several copies to print at a photo kiosk.

💡 Printing tip

Save the sheet to your phone or a USB drive and order it at a photo kiosk as a standard 4×6-inch print.

Choose an ordinary photo print, not the passport photo service.

Official specification

Official nameCédula de identidad
How you hand it inDigital upload
Photo size40×45 mm (1.57×1.77 in)
Head height (chin to top of head)Not set by the authority
BackgroundWhite
GlassesTake them off, unless you can’t for medical reasons
Head coveringOnly for religious or medical reasons, with the face fully visible
ExpressionNeutral, mouth closed, eyes open

Costa Rican National ID Card Photo Guide

Prepare your photo for your Costa Rican Cédula de identidad with clear steps and official guidelines.

Official Size and Requirements

The TSE takes the photo during enrolment[1]. The cited guidance gives digital photo requirements but does not set a physical crop size. A 40 × 45 mm crop is a practical size, not an official measurement.

The TSE takes the photo during enrolment. Its cited guidance does not set a physical crop size or a head-height measurement[1]. A 40 × 45 mm crop is a practical size, not an official specification.

The TSE takes the photo during enrolment[1]. The cited guidance does not specify a separate photo rule for infants.

Background and Lighting

Set up in a room that gets plenty of daylight. Stand close to a plain wall that has no patterns or textures. A light, plain background is required by the current TSE direction; the older regulation defers the exact background color to the TSE[1]. No hex color is specified[1].

Face a window for soft, even natural light on your face. Avoid harsh shadows behind your head or on your face. Position your light source carefully so that your features stand out clearly without dark spots under your chin or nose.

Expression, Eyes and Glasses

Keep your face relaxed. The TSE directs that the expression be neutral, the eyes open and clearly visible, and the mouth closed[1]. Do not smile, frown, or open your mouth.

If you wear prescription frames, check if they block your eyes. Glasses are allowed conditionally[1]. Glasses or accessories may be restricted if they obscure identifying features; religious use is excepted[1]. Take off tinted lenses or heavy frames to prevent any issues with visibility[2].

Headwear and Accessories

The TSE says caps and other items that obscure facial features must be removed[2].

Religious garments are protected[1]. The guidance says identifying facial features must remain visible, but does not give a medical exception or a chin-to-forehead measurement[1][2]. It does not say that ears and hairline must be visible.

Taking Your Photo at Home

Setting up your shot correctly takes patience. Stand about one to one and a half meters away from the camera. Keep the camera lens at your exact eye level. Avoid tilting the camera up or down, as this distorts your facial proportions.

Ask a friend or family member to take the picture for you instead of taking a selfie. Selfies often cause distortion because the phone is too close to your face. You can use the tool above to crop and check your picture layout. Take multiple test shots until you find the right balance of light and distance.

Submission and Digital Files

Knowing how the final image is handled helps you prepare. The submission type for this document is digital[1]. The authority takes the photo itself during your appointment[1].

You can still use the tool above to rehearse, check a photo or prepare a copy for other uses, without claiming it will be accepted. Practice framing your face so you know what looks natural before you arrive at the office.

Before You Go

Gather your identification papers and check your appointment details ahead of time. Plan to arrive a few minutes early so you do not feel rushed.

Review your appearance in a mirror before your turn comes up. Wear neat, everyday clothing that contrasts well with a light background.

Frequently asked questions

What size is needed for a Costa Rican ID photo?

The TSE takes the photo during enrolment. Its cited guidance does not set a physical crop size[1]. A 40 × 45 mm crop is a practical size, not an official requirement.

Can I wear glasses in my photo?

Glasses are allowed conditionally if they do not obscure your eyes or identifying features[1].

What background color should I use?

A light, plain background is required by the current TSE direction[1].

Do I need to submit my own photo?

The Tribunal Supremo de Elecciones captures the photo during enrolment as a digital biometric image[1].

What should I wear when the office takes my picture?

Wear neat, everyday clothing that contrasts well with a light background and avoid caps or face-obscuring items[2].