Official Requirements for the Ecuadorian Identity Card Photo
This guide explains the photo rules and appointment procedures for the Ecuadorian Cédula de identidad based on official standards.
Official Size and Guidelines
The Dirección General de Registro Civil, Identificación y Cedulación issues Ecuadorian identity cards[1][2]. The authority captures the portrait during issuance; the materials reviewed do not publish a photo size[2].
The authority does not publish a photo size for this process. The identity service captures the portrait, so you do not need to prepare a print.
The manual does not set a head-height measurement[2].
Where the Photo is Taken
The authority captures the portrait at the identity service. The materials reviewed do not state a background color or photo dimensions[2].
The materials specify that the portrait is captured at the identity service and do not call for an applicant-supplied photo[2].
Applicants attend in person for photo capture; no applicant-supplied photo is specified[2].
Pose, Expression, and Eyes
The manual specifies a frontal pose, neutral expression, and closed mouth[2].
The manual specifies open eyes[2]. Keep your eyes wide open and natural, and look straight into the camera lens when the picture is taken. Avoid squinting or widening your eyes in an unnatural way.
Glasses and Headwear Rules
The manual does not allow glasses in the photo[2]. Even if you wear prescription glasses every day, you must take them off before the picture is taken. Frames can cast shadows or hide your eyes, which causes problems for the identification system.
The manual permits headwear for religious or medical reasons only[2].
Rules for Children and Infants
The photo is captured by Registro Civil during issuance; the materials do not specify an applicant-supplied photo for children or infants[2].
The source states that the photo is captured during issuance and does not specify a separate applicant-supplied photo rule for minors[2].
The authority captures the photo during issuance; the materials reviewed do not specify a separate applicant-supplied photo rule for children or infants[2].
Preparing and Practicing at Home
The authority captures the portrait at the identity service[1][2]. Even though you do not bring a printed copy from home, you can still practice the required look.
The manual specifies a frontal pose, neutral expression, closed mouth, and open eyes[2].
What to Check Before Your Appointment
Check the Registro Civil office for current appointment and document requirements.
Follow the Registro Civil office's instructions during your visit.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to bring my own photo from home?
What size is used for the Ecuadorian identity card photo?
The authority does not publish a photo size for this process; the portrait is captured at the identity service[2].
Can I wear my glasses in the photo?
No. Glasses are not allowed in your identity card photo[2].
Are head coverings allowed?
Headwear is permitted for religious or medical reasons only, provided it does not obscure your facial features[2].
How should I pose for the camera?
You must maintain a frontal pose with a neutral expression, closed mouth, and open eyes looking straight ahead[2].
What should I expect when the photo is taken at the office?
The authority captures your portrait at the identity service[2].