Preparing Your Photo for the Tunisian National Identity Card
You need the right photo for your Tunisian national identity card, known as the Carte nationale d’identité. This guide explains the official size and how you can prepare your photo.
Official Size and Document Details
You need the correct dimensions when applying for your Tunisian national identity card, which is officially called the Carte nationale d’identité. The traditional published photo size required by the Ministry of the Interior is 30×40 mm, or 1.18×1.57 inches. This specific dimension is the older published photo requirement used for the application process.
The authority does not set a specific head height rule for this document. Because rules can change, you should always check directly with the issuing office or organisation before you submit your application materials. Knowing the exact measurements helps you get your documents ready without confusion.
Rules from the Ministry of the Interior
Under the 2024 law, specialized Interior Ministry services take the applicant’s photo and fingerprints[1]. A national identity card is required from age 15. In exceptional cases, people aged 12 to 15 may receive one[1].
The older Ministry procedure requested three applicant-supplied 30×40 mm photos, with the face and eyes visible against a white or light-colored background[2]. The 2024 law says Ministry services take the applicant’s photo[1], so the older photo requirement is not a confirmed current capture specification.
Background and Lighting Setup
The older Ministry procedure specifies a white or light-colored background for your identity pictures[2]. You should find a plain wall in your house that matches this description. Avoid any patterned wallpaper, posters, or textured surfaces behind you. A clean backdrop keeps the focus entirely on you.
For a clear practice photo, face a window so daylight falls evenly on your face. Avoid overhead lights that cast shadows under your eyes or chin.
Camera Position and Your Pose
Keep your camera or phone at exact eye level to avoid odd angles. Place the camera about one to one and a half meters away from where you are sitting or standing. Do not use the front camera for a selfie because it distorts your facial features. A helper using the main rear camera will give you a much better result.
The cited older procedure asks for the face and eyes to be visible[2]. It does not specify an expression, mouth position, or camera pose.
Preparing Your Print or Digital File
If you want a practice print, you can place a cropped image on a 4×6-inch sheet. Check that the image prints at the intended size. The 30×40 mm dimension comes from the older published requirement[2], not a confirmed current capture specification.
Check your digital files to keep any personal or unofficial archiving needs organized. You can use the tool above to crop your image to the correct proportions right in your browser. The photo never leaves your device, keeping your personal images private and secure.
Common Reasons Photos Are Refused
The cited sources do not list reasons for rejecting identity photos. The older procedure gives photo requirements, while the 2024 law says Ministry services take the applicant’s photo[1][2].
The older procedure lists 30×40 mm photos[2], but the cited sources do not confirm that size as a current capture requirement or state that incorrect sizing is a common reason for refusal.
Age Rules and Legal Exceptions
The 2024 law makes the national identity card compulsory from age 15. In exceptional cases, people aged 12 to 15 may receive one[1].
The cited law gives the age rules for national identity cards[1].
Frequently asked questions
What is the official photo size for a Tunisian national identity card?
The published photo size is 30×40 mm, which equals 1.18×1.57 inches, based on older Ministry of the Interior requirements[2].
Does the authority still require me to bring printed photos?
What background color should I use if I prepare a photo?
The older Ministry procedure specifies a white or light-colored background[2].
What is the minimum age for a Tunisian national ID?
The 2024 law makes the card compulsory from age 15. In exceptional cases, people aged 12 to 15 may receive one[1].
Can I use this website to submit my photo to the government?
No. The 2024 law says Ministry services take the applicant’s photo[1].