Cypriot National Identity Card Photo Guide
Get your Cypriot national identity card photo right by following official size and quality rules. Use the tool above to crop your image easily.
Official Size Requirements
The photo size listed in the biometric photograph guidance is 40 × 50 mm, about 1.57 × 1.97 inches[1]. The Ministry of Interior says applicants may provide their own photo if it meets the required specifications[2].
The published guidance does not set a numeric head-height requirement[1]. Prepare the photo at the specified size and quality.
You can use the tool above to crop your picture to this exact size right in your web browser safely.
Authority Capture and Submission
The authority captures biometric data in person when you visit to apply for your document[1]. However, an applicant may provide a compliant printed biometric photo if they prefer to bring one[1].
If you provide your own photo, it must meet the biometric photo specifications[2].
Background and Lighting
Your photo must feature a plain light-coloured background behind you[1]. Official biometric photograph guidance does not state a specific colour beyond this general description[1].
Make sure there are no distracting patterns, objects, or shadows on the background or on your face when the picture is taken. Good lighting helps the digital or physical camera capture your facial features clearly without harsh dark spots. Stand facing a soft light source, such as a large window, to get an even tone across your face.
Rules for Children and Minors
Children under 12 do not provide fingerprints when they apply for their identity cards[1]. Even though young applicants skip the fingerprint step, a proper photo is still required for the application file[1].
A photo is required for children under 12; the authority may capture it during the application, or applicants may provide a photo that meets the specifications[2][1].
Taking Your Photo at Home
Stand about one to one and a half meters away from the camera lens to capture your head and shoulders properly. Keep the camera at your exact eye level to avoid looking up or down at the lens.
Ask a friend or family member to take the picture instead of holding the camera yourself to avoid distortion. Keep your posture straight, relax your shoulders, and look directly at the camera lens.
You can use the tool above to check your crop and make sure it matches the required dimensions before you print.
Printing Your Photo Correctly
Applicants may provide a printed biometric photo that meets the specifications[2]. You can place the cropped image on a 4 × 6-inch sheet for printing.
Make sure the final print keeps the correct proportions without stretching, compressing, or blurring the original image details. Check that the paper has a standard finish that does not create bright glare under office lights.
Keep the printed photo sheet clean and completely free from folds, bends, or fingerprints before you hand it in.
Common Reasons for Refusal
The biometric photo guidance calls for a plain, light-coloured background[1]. Follow the quality instructions when preparing your photo.
Prepare a clear photo at 40 × 50 mm and follow the biometric photo specifications[1].
Frequently asked questions
What size must the Cypriot identity card photo be?
Do children need a photo for the identity card?
Yes, a photo is required for children, and it can be captured during the application appointment or provided as a compliant printed photo[1].
Can I take the photo at home?
You can take and crop your photo at home to prepare a printed copy, though the authority also captures biometric data and photos in person[1].
What kind of background do I need?
You need a plain light-coloured background, as official guidance does not state a specific colour beyond this description[1].
Do children give fingerprints for the identity card?
Children under 12 do not provide fingerprints for their identity cards[1].