How to Prepare Your Cuban Passport Photo
Get the correct size and format for your Cuban passport application with clear official guidelines.
Official Size Requirements
For Cuban citizens resident abroad, the regulation requires two 4 × 4 cm photos (40 × 40 mm, about 1.57 × 1.57 in)[1]. The cited rule does not establish this as the photo size for all passport applications.
The exact head height is not set by the authority in the published official rules[1]. Because of this missing specification, you should keep your head centered and sized reasonably within the square frame. The tool above can help you crop your image to the correct 40 by 40 millimeter dimensions without any technical trouble.
Where and How You Submit Your Application
The rules for your photo depend entirely on where you live when you apply for your document. The regulation cited requires two 4 by 4 centimeter printed photos for Cuban citizens resident abroad[1]. If you live outside of Cuba, you need to provide these physical paper copies along with your application paperwork[1].
For residents in Cuba, the cited instructions describe an online application service for adults[2]. They do not establish that the government captures the photo or explicitly say that applicants never need to supply one.
Background and Composition Details
The regulation cited requires two 4 by 4 centimeter photos for Cuban citizens resident abroad, but it does not specify background colors or composition rules[1]. Because the official text leaves this detail open, you do not have a strict background color mandated by the law[1].
Even though the official rules do not state a specific color, plain white or light backgrounds work best for identification photos so your face stands out clearly. Find a bright room with soft light to take your picture. Face a window to get even lighting on your face and avoid dark shadows behind you.
Glasses, Expression and Headwear
The cited regulation does not specify whether glasses are allowed[1]. If you wear glasses, check the current instructions with the office handling your application.
The cited regulation does not specify rules for headwear or facial expression[1]. Check current instructions with the office handling your application.
Rules for Children and Minors
The cited regulation includes provisions for passports for minors and requires authorization from a parent or legal representative[1]. Check with the office handling the application for the current forms and process.
No separate infant photo dimensions were found in the official rules[1]. If you need to take a photo for a baby or young child, lay them down on a plain white sheet or use a car seat covered with a plain blanket. Make sure the child faces the camera directly with eyes open and visible.
Preparing Your Photo at Home
You can take your passport picture at home using a digital camera or a smartphone. Ask a trusted friend or family member to take the picture instead of holding the camera yourself at arm length. Keep the camera at eye level about one to one and a half meters away from your face.
If you are a Cuban citizen resident abroad, the regulation requires two 4 × 4 cm printed photos[1]. Check the current instructions with the office handling your application before preparing or printing them.
Frequently asked questions
What is the official size of a Cuban passport photo?
The official size is 40 by 40 millimeters, which is 1.57 by 1.57 inches[1].
Does the authority require a specific background color?
The regulation cited requires photos for citizens resident abroad but does not specify background or composition[1].
Can I submit my photo online if I live in Cuba?
Yes, domestic adult applications can be submitted online, and the authority captures identification data directly[2].
Are glasses permitted in the photo?
The official rules are unspecified regarding glasses[1], but removing them prevents glare.
Do children need a passport photo?
The ordinary passport applies to minors, but no separate infant photo dimensions were found in the official texts[1].