French National Identity Card Photo Rules and Size
If you need a photo for a French national identity card in French Polynesia, use a recent printed photo that follows French identity-photo rules[1][2].
Official Size and Submission
The photo must measure 35×45 mm, or about 1.38×1.77 inches[2]. The application guidance asks for one recent photo[1].
The cited sources do not set a head-height measurement[1][2]. Applications in French Polynesia are handled by authorized local authorities, and the issued document comes from the French Republic[1].
Background and Lighting
The background must be light and uniform[2]. Plain white or off-white walls work best for this purpose.
Face a window or use even lighting to avoid heavy shadows on your face or behind your head. Good lighting helps the issuing office see your features clearly without glare. Avoid shadows cast by your nose, chin, or hair against the background wall.
Expression and Glasses
You must keep a neutral facial expression when you take the photo[2]. Keep your mouth completely closed and do not smile or frown[2].
Glasses are allowed under conditions[2]. Make sure the frames do not hide the eyes and the lenses have no glare or tint[2]. If your glasses reflect light, tilt your head slightly or take them off to avoid rejection.
Head Coverings
Head coverings are allowed only for religious or medical reasons[2].
If you wear a head covering for religious or medical reasons, keep your face visible[2].
Rules for Children and Infants
Minors applying for a French national identity card must provide a recent photo[1].
No separate infant size rule was identified. The standard photo size is 35×45 mm[2].
Taking Your Photo at Home
You can take your photo at home using a digital camera or a smartphone. Ask someone else to take the picture instead of taking a selfie, and keep the camera at your eye level about one to one and a half meters away.
After you take the picture, use the tool above to crop it to the required dimensions. Make sure your head is centered properly in the frame before you save the file.
Printing Your Photo Sheet
The tool above arranges your cropped photo onto a standard 4 by 6 inch sheet layout. Save this image file to your phone or a memory card.
Take the file to a local photo kiosk and print it as an ordinary 4 by 6 inch photo. Cut out the individual 35 by 45 millimeter photo carefully along the lines before you submit your application.
Before You Go
Check your printed photo before you head to your appointment with the local authority. Make sure the dimensions measure exactly 35 by 45 millimeters when measured with a physical ruler.
Bring your printed photo to the appointment along with your other required paperwork. The authority handles applications in French Polynesia and checks that your picture meets all standards.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A common error is wearing glasses with tinted lenses or heavy frames that cover your eyes. Keep your eyes completely visible and free from reflections.
Another frequent mistake is smiling or having an open mouth. Keep your expression totally neutral with your lips pressed together.
Frequently asked questions
What size does a French national identity card photo need to be?
Can I smile in my identity card photo?
No, you must maintain a neutral expression with your mouth closed[2].
Are glasses permitted in the photo?
Glasses are allowed only under conditional rules, meaning they cannot block your eyes, create glare, or have tinted lenses[2].
How do I print the photo at home?
You can use the tool on this page to format your cropped photo onto a 4 by 6 inch sheet, and then print it at a standard photo kiosk.
Can I wear a hat in the picture?
Head coverings are allowed only for religious or medical reasons, and your face must remain fully visible[2].