Mauritanian National Identity Card Photo Guide
Preparing for your Mauritanian biometric national identity card means understanding how photos work for your application. This guide explains the official details and how to use the tool above to get your prints ready.
Understanding the Photo Size
Mauritania offers access to its biometric national identity card through the Houwiyeti platform[1]. The official page reviewed does not state a photo size[1]. A 35×45 mm (1.38×1.77 in) crop is a common practical choice, but confirm the photo requirements with the issuing office.
You should always confirm this specific requirement with the issuing office before you submit your application materials. The tool above helps you set these exact dimensions quickly right inside your web browser.
Head Height and Framing Details
Official guidelines do not set a specific head height rule for your ID picture[1]. When you take your photo at home, try to keep your head centered in the frame with equal space on both sides. Leave a small amount of breathing room above your hair and below your chin.
You can use a framing grid to align your shoulders and face correctly before you crop the image down to the final size. Taking your time during this step helps make your composition look balanced and neat.
Background and Lighting Guidelines
Official pages reviewed do not list a specific background colour or lighting requirement for the identity card photo[1]. To achieve a clean result, stand in front of a plain, light-coloured wall inside your home. Face a large window to use soft, natural daylight on your face.
Avoid standing too close to the wall, as this can create shadows behind your head. Even lighting can help make your facial features clear.
Glasses, Expression, and Headwear
The official page reviewed does not specify rules for glasses, head coverings, or facial expressions[1]. If you prepare a photo, you may choose to keep your face visible and look toward the camera.
If you wear everyday glasses, make sure there are no bright light reflections on the lenses that hide your eyes. Removing your glasses entirely is often the safest way to avoid glare issues.
Rules for Children and Infants
The official page reviewed does not list separate photo rules for children[1].
If you are preparing a practice photo, take several pictures and choose one where the child is looking toward the camera.
How the Photo is Captured
The supplied research indicates that the photo is captured during biometric enrollment. The official page cited here does not describe photo capture[1].
You may prepare a photo for your personal records, but the official page does not state whether applicants may submit a printed photo.
Preparing Your Printed Photo Sheet
The official page reviewed does not specify a printed-photo requirement[1]. If you want a personal copy, you can arrange a 35×45 mm image on a 4×6-inch sheet.
If you want a personal print, save the file and take it to a photo kiosk. Check the print before using it.
Frequently asked questions
What is the photo size for a Mauritanian ID card?
The authority publishes no single official size, but 35×45 mm (1.38×1.77 in) is the size most often asked for[1].
Does the authority set a head height rule?
No, head height is not set by the authority[1].
Is the photo taken at home submitted directly?
The supplied research says the photo is captured during biometric enrollment. The cited page does not explain whether a home photo can be submitted[1].
Are there special rules for children's photos?
No separate child rules are listed in the official guidelines[1].
What submission format is needed?
The official page reviewed does not specify a photo submission format[1].
How do I print the photo at home?
You can arrange your cropped image on a 4×6-inch sheet and print it at a local kiosk.