Preparing for Your Argentine Passport Photo
You need a clear understanding of the photo rules for the Pasaporte Ordinario para Argentinos. Knowing what RENAPER requires helps you prepare[1][2].
Official Size and Image Rules
The official size for the Pasaporte Ordinario para Argentinos is 40×40 mm, which equals 1.57×1.57 in[1]. The official regulation requires a current, front-facing, half-bust color image[1]. Head height is not set by the authority, meaning there is no fixed measurement for the distance from your chin to the top of your head[1]. The regulations are designed to maintain strict standards across all issued travel documents. You must pay close attention to every detail specified by the government agency[1].
RENAPER captures the applicant's photo during the in-person biometric appointment[2]. Because of this official rule, applicants do not bring printed photos to the appointment[2]. Adult and minor passport rules use the exact same image specification, so the requirements stay consistent across age groups[1].
Background and Lighting
Your photo must feature a uniform, plain white background[1]. You should try to stand directly in front of a smooth, solid white wall without any patterns, textures, or shadows. Avoid standing near colored walls or objects that might reflect light onto your background.
Good lighting helps the camera capture your true skin tone and facial features clearly. Try to face a large window with soft daylight to avoid harsh shadows on your face or on the wall behind you. Turn off bright overhead lights if they cause uneven glares or dark spots under your chin and nose.
Expression and Appearance
Keep your head straight, face the camera directly, and maintain a natural posture with your shoulders relaxed. Avoid tilting your head up, down, or sideways. Headwear is strictly permitted for religious or medical reasons only[1]. If you wear head coverings for these permitted reasons, make sure your full face remains clearly visible from your chin to the top of your forehead.
Ask a friend or family member to take the picture for you instead of taking a selfie. Keep the camera at your exact eye level, about one to one and a half meters away from your face, to prevent any distortion of your nose or forehead. Hold your device steady or use a small tripod to keep the image sharp and clear.
Rules for Children and Minors
For minors under the age of 18, the Argentine passport validity is set to five years[2]. Photographing infants and young children requires extra patience and attention to detail. The official rules state that the child's eyes must be fully open in the final picture[2].
No third-party hands may appear holding the child in the photo frame[2]. You can easily solve this by laying the child flat on a plain white sheet or blanket on the floor. Stand directly above the child and take the picture downward, ensuring no adult fingers or arms are visible in the shot.
How the Tool Can Help You
Even though RENAPER captures your official biometric photo during your in-person appointment, you might still want to practice at home[2]. Preparing ahead of time helps you understand how to pose correctly and check your lighting. You can use the tool above to crop and check your pictures on your own device.
The tool helps you frame your image to the correct dimensions right in your web browser. Your photo never leaves your device, which keeps your personal images private, secure, and fully under your control at all times.
Common Reasons Photos Are Refused
Official offices often reject application photos that have poor lighting, dark shadows, or incorrect backgrounds. Make sure your face is evenly lit and your background is completely plain and bright white[1]. Double-check that you are not wearing any prohibited headwear, dark glasses, or accessories that hide your facial features[1].
Always follow the exact instructions provided by RENAPER for your passport application to give yourself the best chance of smooth processing[2]. Review all requirements carefully before your appointment date arrives. Taking these extra steps helps you feel confident when you attend your scheduled meeting with the government officials.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to bring printed photos to my appointment?
No. RENAPER captures the applicant's photo during the in-person biometric appointment, so applicants do not bring printed photos[2].
What is the official photo size?
The official size for the Pasaporte Ordinario para Argentinos is 40×40 mm[1].
Are head coverings allowed?
Headwear is permitted for religious or medical reasons only[1].
How long is a passport valid for minors?
For minors under 18, the passport validity is five years[2].
Can I use the tool on this page to prepare?
You can use the tool above to crop and practice your pictures at home, even though RENAPER takes the official photo during your appointment[2].