Get Your Dominican Republic Passport Photo Right
Preparing a passport photo for your Dominican Republic passport requires careful attention to official size and background rules.
Official Size and Measurements
For web applications, the passport service specifies a 2×2-inch (50.8×50.8 mm) photo[1]. The consular checklist specifies a 5×5 cm photo[2]. Follow the instructions for the office handling your application.
The cited sources do not give a head-height measurement. Center your face in the frame and follow the instructions for your application.
Background and Lighting Requirements
The consular checklist specifies a white background with no shadow[2].
Good lighting helps you avoid shadows on the wall or your face. Stand facing a large window with soft natural light, or use two lamps placed evenly on either side of you. Turn off any harsh overhead lights that create dark spots under your chin or nose.
Taking the Photo at Home
If you are preparing a digital file for a web application, taking the picture at home saves time. Stand about one meter away from a plain white wall. Ask a friend or family member to use a digital camera or phone to take the picture from your eye level. Do not use the selfie camera, because it can distort your facial features and lower image quality.
Wear everyday clothing that contrasts with a white background. Keep your shoulders square to the camera and look straight into the lens. Relax your face so you do not smile, frown, or raise your eyebrows. Check that your hair is tucked behind your ears so your forehead and ears remain clearly visible.
Facial Expression and Appearance
The consular checklist calls for a frontal, close-up color photo, without expression, with the forehead and ears visible[2].
The consular checklist requires the forehead and ears to be visible[2]. The cited sources do not specify whether glasses are allowed.
Where and How Photos Are Taken
For in-person applications in the Dominican Republic, the passport service takes the photo at its office[1].
Web applications require an uploaded digital photo[1]. Some consulates offer photography; check with your consulate for availability[2].
Rules for Children and Infants
The consular checklist specifies a 5×5 cm photo for minors[2]. For web applications, the passport service specifies a 2×2-inch (50.8×50.8 mm) photo[1]. Check the instructions for the application route you are using.
Taking a photo of a young child can be tricky at home. Lay your child on a plain white sheet on the floor and stand directly above them to get a straight-on shot. Make sure the child's eyes are open and their face has a neutral expression with no toys or hands in the frame.
Preparing Your Digital File
If you need a digital file for an online submission, you must format it correctly. You can use the tool above to crop your photo to the correct size quickly in your web browser. The photo never leaves your device, keeping your personal pictures private.
Check your cropped image on a computer screen before you upload it. Make sure the lighting is bright, your shoulders are level, and the white background has no shadows or marks. Always confirm the final file meets any specific upload prompts on the official portal.
Before You Go to the Office
If you are visiting an office in person where the authority takes your picture, you do not need to bring a printed photo[1]. For in-person applications in the Dominican Republic, the passport service takes the digital photo at its office[1]. Review your specific appointment details so you know what to expect.
If your application requires an uploaded file, double-check all technical requirements before submitting. Keep a digital backup of your unedited photo just in case you need to recrop it. Arrive at your appointment on time and follow all staff instructions carefully.
Frequently asked questions
What is the official size for a Dominican Republic passport photo?
Do I need to bring a printed photo for an in-person application?
For applications in the Dominican Republic, the passport service takes the digital photo at its office for in-person applications[1].
Can children use a smaller photo size?
What color must the background be?
The background must be a white background; no shadow[2].
Are web applications allowed to use uploaded photos?
Yes, web applications require an uploaded digital photo[1].
Should I smile in my passport photo?
No, the consular checklist calls for a photo without expression[2].