French Passport Photo Requirements and Preparation
If you need a photo for a French passport in French Polynesia, you must follow strict official rules[1]. You can use the tool above to crop your picture to the right size.
Official Size and Measurements
The photo must measure 35×45 mm, or about 1.38×1.77 inches[2]. The application guidance requires one recent photo[1].
The cited guidance does not set a head-height measurement[2].
Background and Lighting
French identity-photo rules apply directly to the setting behind you[2]. According to the official guidelines, the photo background must be light and uniform[2]. The exact color is not specified in the cited passport guidance[2], so a simple off-white, light gray, or cream wall works well as long as it has no patterns, textures, or objects on it.
Avoid standing too close to the wall, because your body can cast harsh shadows. Make sure your lighting is bright and even across your entire face. Facing a large window during daylight hours gives you soft, natural illumination without needing professional studio lights.
Expression, Glasses, and Head Coverings
Your facial expression and appearance must follow strict official standards. You must keep a neutral expression with your mouth closed[2]. Do not smile, grin, frown, or part your lips when the picture is taken.
Glasses are allowed conditionally[2], meaning you can wear them only if your eyes remain completely visible through the lenses. Make sure your frames do not cover your eyes, and check carefully for any flash reflections or glare on the glass.
Headwear is permitted only for religious or medical reasons[2]. Your face must remain visible[2].
Rules for Children and Infants
Children need a recent photo[1]. The same 35×45 mm photo size applies to children[2].
The cited guidance does not provide a separate photo size for infants. Ask the application office about any specific infant-photo concerns.
Taking Your Photo at Home
Taking your own passport picture at home is easy if you follow a few basic steps. Stand about one to one and a half meters away from the camera to prevent distortion of your facial features. Keep the camera lens at your exact eye level, rather than pointing it upward or downward.
It is usually best to ask a friend or family member to take the picture for you instead of attempting a handheld selfie, which often creates awkward angles. Once you capture a clear, well-lit image, you can use the tool above to crop your picture to the exact 35 by 45 mm dimensions.
Printing and Submitting Your Photo
Submit one recent printed photo with your application[1]. You can place the cropped image on a 4×6-inch sheet if that helps you print it.
Print the sheet at its intended size so the cut photo measures 35×45 mm. Bring the printed photo to your appointment[1].
Common Reasons Photos Are Refused
Passport applications often hit delays when authorities reject the submitted photo. Common refusal reasons include bad lighting, dark shadows behind the head, or a non-neutral expression where the mouth is slightly open. Photos taken with heavy flash glare on glasses or frames that block the eyes will also fail inspection.
Always double-check that your background is light and uniform, your expression is completely neutral, and your dimensions match the required 35 by 45 mm standard before you finalize your print layout.
Frequently asked questions
What is the official size for a French passport photo?
Can I wear glasses in my passport photo?
Glasses are allowed conditionally, provided they do not obscure your eyes and have no glare on the lenses[2].
Can infants use the same photo size?
Yes, a recent photo is required and the same 35 by 45 mm photo rules apply to children and infants[2].
What kind of background do I need?
The background must be light and uniform, though the exact color is not specified in the official guidance[2].
How many photos do I need to submit?
You must provide one recent printed photo with your application[2].