Irish Passport Photo Guidelines and Requirements
Get your Irish passport photo right by following official rules for size, background, and expression. You can use the tool above to prepare your image correctly.
Official Size and Print Requirements
Your Irish passport photo must measure 35 by 45 millimeters, which is about 1.38 by 1.77 inches[1]. The head height is not set by the authority[1]. You must take the photo within the last six months[1].
If you apply using paper, you need to supply four identical prints[1]. These printed photos must be at least 35 by 45 millimeters and can be up to 38 by 50 millimeters in size[1].
If you apply online, you can submit a digital photo file[1]. The digital file size must not be larger than 9216 KB[1]. You can also use a participating photo booth code for your digital application[1].
Background and Lighting Rules
The background must be a plain light grey, white, or cream background; the wording does not prescribe exact shades[1]. Avoid patterned walls, wallpaper, or textured surfaces.
Good lighting helps make your photo clear and bright. Stand facing a window or use even indoor lighting so shadows do not fall across your face or the background behind you.
Expression, Glasses, and Headwear
You must keep a neutral expression with your mouth closed and no smile[1]. Look directly into the camera lens with your eyes wide open and fully visible.
Glasses are allowed conditionally[1]. If you wear glasses, make sure the frames do not cover your eyes and there is no glare on the lenses.
Headwear is permitted for religious or medical reasons only[1]. Your full face from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead must be clearly visible without shadows.
Rules for Children and Infants
Special rules apply when you take photos of babies and young children. For newborns to 36 months, guardians can use the online cropping tool to frame the child's face[1].
Do not use a pacifier in the photo[1]. Make efforts for a natural expression, no smile, and closed mouth[1]. Laying the baby on a plain light-colored sheet or using a car seat covered with a plain sheet can help you get a clear shot.
Taking Your Photo at Home Step by Step
You can take your passport photo at home using a digital camera or smartphone. Ask a friend or family member to take the picture instead of taking a selfie, because selfies distort facial features.
Stand about one to one and a half meters away from the camera. Keep the camera lens at your exact eye level. Check that your shoulders and head fit comfortably inside the frame with space around them.
Preparing and Printing Your Photo
Once you capture a good photo, you can use the tool above to crop it to the correct dimensions. The tool runs right in your browser so your photo stays private on your device.
If you need printed copies for a paper form, you can arrange your cropped photo onto a standard 4 by 6-inch sheet. Send that sheet to a local print kiosk as an ordinary photo print to get your required copies cheaply.
Common Reasons Photos Are Refused
Passport offices reject many photos because of simple mistakes. Smiling, showing teeth, or having an open mouth will cause your photo to be refused[1].
Other common problems include shadows on the face, poor lighting, wearing heavy frames that hide the eyes, or submitting a photo older than six months[1]. Check every detail before you submit your application.
Frequently asked questions
What size does an Irish passport photo need to be?
The official size is 35 by 45 millimeters, or 1.38 by 1.77 inches[1].
Can I wear glasses in my Irish passport photo?
Glasses are allowed conditionally[1]. They must not block your eyes, and the lenses must be free from glare.
What are the background color rules?
You must use a plain light grey, white, or cream background; the wording does not prescribe exact shades[1].
How many printed photos do I need for a paper application?
What is the maximum file size for a digital photo?
The digital photo file must not exceed 9216 KB[1].