French Passport Photo Rules and Sizes
You need a physical photo for your French passport application in French Guiana[1]. Follow these official rules carefully to make sure your photo meets every standard set by the authorities[2][1].
Official Size and Head Dimensions
The official size for your French passport photo is 35x45 mm, which equals about 1.38x1.77 inches[2][1]. This specific rectangular proportion is mandatory for all passport applications submitted in French Guiana[1]. When you prepare your image, you must pay close attention to the overall canvas dimensions so that the printing process does not distort your face. You can use the tool above to crop your image to these exact dimensions quickly and easily.
Your head must measure 32–36 mm from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head, excluding hair[2].
Background and Lighting Requirements
Your photo must feature a plain light background, such as light blue or light grey[2]. The rules state very clearly that white backgrounds are completely prohibited for this document[2]. You should find a solid wall that matches these approved light tones without any patterns, textures, or shadows cast upon it. If your wall is dark or patterned, hang a plain light blue or light grey sheet behind you before you take the picture.
Good lighting helps the camera capture your true skin tone and facial features clearly. Face a bright window to let natural light illuminate your face evenly from the front. Avoid standing directly under overhead lamps, because they create dark shadows under your eyes and nose. Ask a friend or family member to take the picture instead of holding the camera yourself, and keep the lens at your exact eye level about 1 to 1.5 meters away from your face. Taking the photo from the correct distance prevents facial distortion that often causes authorities to reject the application.
Expression, Glasses, and Headwear
You must maintain a completely neutral expression when the photo is taken[2]. Do not smile, frown, raise your eyebrows, or distort your facial features in any way. Your mouth must be completely closed throughout the entire process[2]. Authorities look for a natural, relaxed face that matches your everyday appearance without artificial expressions.
Glasses are allowed if the frames do not hide your eyes and the lenses have no tint or reflections[2]. Thick frames are prohibited. Headwear is prohibited[2].
Rules for Children and Infants
The same 35×45 mm photo requirements apply to children, and the applicant supplies the photo[2][1].
To photograph a baby, lay them flat on a plain light blue or light grey blanket on the floor. Stand directly above the baby to take the shot straight down while keeping the camera level. Wait until the child has a neutral expression with a closed mouth and looks toward the lens. Take multiple shots so you have several options to choose from before you crop the image.
Printing and Submission Options
You must provide one recent photo with your application[1]. Biometric capture at the counter does not replace the photo[1].
You can prepare your final picture by arranging your cropped photo onto a standard 4x6-inch photo sheet using the tool above. Save the sheet and print it out at any standard photo printing kiosk. Once you have the physical print, use scissors to cut the photo carefully along the borders to the exact 35x45 mm size before attaching it to your application.
Common Reasons for Refusal
Authorities frequently refuse passport photos because of incorrect background colors[2]. Remember that white backgrounds are prohibited, and your photo must feature a plain light blue or light grey backdrop instead[2]. Using an old photo or a picture with low resolution will also lead to an immediate rejection by the passport office.
Other common refusal reasons include smiling, an open mouth, or wearing tinted glasses[2]. Always double-check your head height to verify it falls strictly within the 32 to 36 mm range from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head[2]. Taking the time to check these small details prevents costly delays in your travel plans.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wear glasses in my French passport photo?
Glasses are allowed conditionally, provided your eyes are completely visible and there is no glare on the lenses[2].
What background color must I use for my photo?
You must use a plain light background, such as light blue or light grey, because white is strictly prohibited[2].
Are babies exempt from these photo rules?
Do I need a printed photo or a digital file?
You must submit a printed photo because biometric capture at the counter does not replace the required physical photo[1].
What is the official head height requirement?
Your head must measure between 32 and 36 mm from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head[2].