Preparing Your Cuban Carné de Identidad Photo
Get the right size and details for your Cuban national identity card photo. Follow the official requirements to prepare your prints.
Official Size and Document Basics
The cited notice says applicants replacing a Tarjeta de Menor with a permanent identity document must provide two 3 × 3 cm photos[1]. That is 30 × 30 mm (about 1.18 × 1.18 in). The notice does not describe a general photo rule for every update or replacement, or specify a digital or printed submission method. The 2026 notice concerns card availability[2].
For the application described in the notice, prepare two square photos measuring 3 × 3 cm[1]. Check current instructions with the identification office before applying.
Background and Composition Rules
Official government notices require two 3 × 3 cm photos but do not state a background color or composition requirements[1]. Because the authority does not list a specific background shade, you should choose a plain, light-colored background if you take your picture at home. Avoid patterns, textures, or shadows behind you so that your face remains clear and easy to see. A simple white or off-white wall works well for this purpose.
The head height is not set by the authority in the official documentation[1]. This means you do not need to measure exact millimeter distances from your chin to the top of your head[1]. Center your head naturally within the 30×30 mm square frame. Keep your shoulders level and face the camera directly to maintain a balanced composition in your final print.
Facial Features, Glasses, and Headwear
Official rules leave glasses and headwear unspecified[1]. If you normally wear prescription glasses, you should check with your local MININT office to see if you can keep them on for your identity card picture. If you wear head coverings for religious or medical reasons, confirm local acceptance standards before you submit your printed photos.
The guidelines do not provide strict mandates about facial expressions or mouth position[1]. However, keeping a natural, neutral expression with your mouth closed is always a safe approach for official identification documents. Look directly into the camera lens with your eyes open and clearly visible. Avoid smiling broadly or frowning so that your face matches your everyday appearance.
Age Rules and the Tarjeta de Menor
The cited notice describes replacing a Tarjeta de Menor with a permanent identity document and requires two 3 × 3 cm photos for that process[1]. Check current instructions with the identification office.
Children and teenagers may have different processing steps at the identification office. Parents or legal guardians should review current announcements from MININT to understand what to expect during a minor card replacement. Preparing the correct number of 30×30 mm prints in advance helps streamline your visit to the local office, regardless of the applicant's age.
Taking Your Photo at Home
You can set up a comfortable space at home to capture your identity picture. Face a large window to receive bright, even natural light across your face. Avoid standing too close to the window to prevent harsh shadows or overexposed spots on your skin. Turn off overhead yellow lights that might create uneven color tones in your picture.
Ask a friend, family member, or partner to take the picture for you instead of holding the device yourself. Selfies often distort facial features and rarely meet official framing standards. Keep the camera lens at your exact eye level, positioned about one to one and a half meters away from your face. Use the tool above to check your framing and adjust the crop to the required 30×30 mm size.
Printing Your Photo Sheet
The cited notice requires two 3 × 3 cm photos for the Tarjeta de Menor replacement process[1]. It does not specify a submission method or paper type. Check current instructions before printing.
Once you have your printed sheet, use a pair of sharp scissors or a paper cutter to separate the photos. Check that the cut squares measure precisely 30×30 mm with a ruler before your appointment[1]. Keep the extra prints in a safe place in case you need them for additional paperwork or replacements.
Frequently asked questions
What is the official size of the Cuban identity card photo?
The official size is 30×30 mm (1.18×1.18 in)[1].
Does the government require a specific background color?
The cited government notice requires two 3 × 3 cm photos but does not state a background color or composition requirements[1].
What are the rules for children and teenagers?
Are glasses allowed in the photo?
The official rules for glasses are unspecified[1].
How many photos do I need to submit?
The official notice requires two photos[1].