French Naturalisation Application Photo Guide
Prepare your photo for a French naturalisation application in Réunion with the correct size and rules.
Official Size and Submission Requirements
The naturalisation notice requires two identity photos measuring 35 × 45 mm[1]. The application is handled by the prefecture of Réunion. Check the printed photos against the stated size before submitting them.
The official size required by the authority is 35 by 45 millimetres, which translates to about 1.38 by 1.77 inches[1]. This is a standard passport and identity document proportion used across many official French administrative procedures. Always verify that your printed output matches these exact measurements using a physical ruler before you attach them to your application forms.
Once you have your printed copies ready, there is an extra physical requirement you must follow carefully. You must write your names and date of birth on the back of each printed photo[1]. Use a soft pencil or a pen that does not bleed through the paper so the text remains legible without damaging the image quality on the front side.
Head and Face Rules
Your head must be completely uncovered in the photo that you submit for your naturalisation file[1]. This is a strict requirement set out by the official notice to allow proper visual identification by the examining officers at the prefecture in Réunion.
The notice requires the applicant’s head to be uncovered[1].
Keep your posture straight and centered within the frame. Your shoulders should be square to the camera, and your face should look directly forward without tilting up, down, or to the side, maintaining a natural look.
Background and Lighting
The naturalisation notice specifies photo size and uncovered head but does not state a background color[1]. Because the official instructions do not mandate a specific backdrop tone, aim for a plain, neutral wall if possible to keep the focus entirely on your facial features.
Proper lighting is essential to make sure your facial features are clearly visible without harsh shadows. Stand facing a window that lets in soft, natural daylight rather than sitting under direct overhead lights that create dark rings under your eyes or strange glints on your skin.
If you do not have good natural light, position a lamp in front of you rather than behind you. Keeping the lighting balanced across your face helps the camera capture natural skin tones and clear details without requiring heavy digital editing.
Taking Your Photo at Home
You can take your own picture at home using a digital camera or a smartphone before you print it out. Ask a friend or family member to take the photo for you instead of trying to stretch your arm out for a selfie, which distorts facial proportions.
Position the camera at your exact eye level to maintain a realistic perspective of your face. Keep the camera about one to one and a half metres away from you so your head and shoulders fit naturally into the frame without optical distortion.
You can use the tool above to crop your image to the correct dimensions. Take several test shots in good daylight to check the lighting and your posture before you finalise anything for your application sheet.
Printing Your Photo Sheet
Because the application requires printed copies, you need to arrange the final image onto a standard 4 by 6 inch photo sheet. Printing multiple copies on a single sheet is a cost-effective way to get the exact physical items you need for your paperwork.
You can use the tool above to help arrange your cropped photo onto a printable layout. This helps your 35 by 45 millimetre pictures maintain their correct scale when printed at home or at a retail store kiosk.
Save the final 4 by 6 inch file to a USB memory drive or send it directly to your phone. Take it to a local print kiosk and print the sheet as an ordinary matte or glossy photo without applying automatic filters or cropping enhancements.
Checking Your Final Photos
Before you send your application to the prefecture, check that you have two identical printed copies[1]. Having the correct quantity prevents unnecessary back-and-forth communication with the office processing your citizenship request in Réunion.
Write your names and date of birth on the back of each photo[1].
Check that your photos follow the instructions in the official notice[1].
Frequently asked questions
What size do I need for a French naturalisation photo in Réunion?
You need two photos sized 35 by 45 millimetres, or 1.38 by 1.77 inches[1].
Can I wear a hat or head covering?
No, headwear is not permitted and your head must be uncovered[1].
What should I write on the back of the photo?
You must write your names and your date of birth on the back of each photo[1].
What background colour is required?
The naturalisation notice specifies photo size and uncovered head but does not state a background color[1].
How many photos must I submit?
You must submit two printed identity photos with your application[1].