Preparing for Your Israeli National ID Card Photo
Getting an Israeli national ID card means you need to know how the Population and Immigration Authority handles your photo. This page explains what to expect when you apply.
Who Takes Your ID Photo
The Population and Immigration Authority captures the biometric face image during your application[1]. The official photo is taken at the office[1].
The authority takes the photo at the office during the application[1].
You do not need to prepare a printed photo for the official process; the authority takes the biometric photo at the office[1].
The Official Size and Requirements
The authority does not publish a photo size for applicant-supplied prints. It captures the biometric photo during the application[1].
The authority does not publish a head-height requirement for an applicant-supplied photo. The official photo is taken at the office[1].
No applicant-supplied photo size is published. The authority takes the photo at the office[1].
Background and Environment Rules
The authority captures the biometric face image during the application[1]. Its public guidance does not specify a background for an applicant-supplied photo.
The authority takes the photo at the office[1].
You do not need to prepare a background for an applicant-supplied photo; the authority takes the image at the office[1].
Age and In-Person Rules
Your first national ID card is issued starting from age 16[2]. For this important application, you must appear in person at the local office[2]. During this mandatory visit, staff will take your official photo and complete your biometric file directly[1].
You must apply in person[2].
The first ID card is issued from age 16, and the applicant must appear in person[2].
Before You Go
Check the official instructions for any forms or documents required for your application.
Follow any instructions from the office during your visit.
Using the Tool on This Page
If you want a personal copy for another purpose, you can use the tool above to crop it. The authority does not publish a standard size for an applicant-supplied national ID photo.
A cropped copy is for personal use; the official biometric image is taken by the authority at the office[1].
Common Reasons Photos Are Refused or Changed
The authority takes the biometric photo during the application[1]. Applicants must appear in person[2].
The authority takes the biometric photo during the application[1], and applicants must appear in person[2].
The authority takes the biometric photo at the office[1].
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to bring a passport photo for my Israeli ID?
No, the authority captures the biometric face image during your application at the office[1].
What size is normally used if I need a print?
The authority takes the biometric photo during the application; it does not publish a standard size for a photo supplied by the applicant[1].
At what age do I get my first ID card?
Your first national ID card is issued from age 16[2].
Can I send someone else to apply for me?
No, you must appear in person to be photographed and complete the process[2].
Can I use the tool above for my official ID?
The authority takes the official ID photo at the office[1]. It does not publish a standard size for applicant-supplied photos.
What happens during the office photo session?
The authority captures the biometric face image during the application[1].