Getting Photos for Your Senegalese Ordinary Passport
The ordinary passport application requires three color identity photos[1]. The official source does not specify their dimensions.
Official Size and Document Guidelines
The Ministère de l’Intérieur et de la Sécurité publique handles passport applications in Senegal[1]. When you apply for a passeport ordinaire, you must provide three color identity photos as part of your application file[1]. The authority publishes no single official size for these identification photos[1].
The authority does not publish photo dimensions[1]. A 35 by 45 mm (1.38 by 1.77 inch) size may be used as a practical studio guideline, but confirm the required size with the issuing office.
Background and Photo Lighting Setup
The official source asks for three color identity photos but does not specify their background color[1].
To achieve a clean result when taking your picture at home, stand in front of a plain, neutral wall. Face a bright window so natural light hits your face evenly without creating harsh shadows under your nose or chin. Ask a friend or family member to take the picture for you instead of using a selfie mode, which can distort your facial proportions. Keep the camera lens at your exact eye level, roughly one to one and a half meters away from your face.
Head Height and Framing Details
The authority has not set a specific rule for head height or top margins on your passport photo[1]. Because the official guidelines leave head height unstated, you should center your head naturally within the frame[1].
You want your entire face, from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head, to be fully visible in the final picture. Keep a relaxed posture, keep your expression neutral, and look directly into the camera lens without tilting your head. The tool above lets you crop your image easily to the 35 by 45 millimeter size commonly used in practice.
Rules for Children and Infants
A Senegalese citizen can apply for an ordinary passport from birth[1]. For a minor, the source requires parental authorization and a certified copy of a parent’s national identity card with a certificate of support from the mairie or justice[1].
You also need to attach all parental supporting documents specified by the authority[1]. Photographing a baby can require extra patience, so you can try laying the infant on a plain light-colored sheet on the floor and shooting from directly above while maintaining soft, good lighting. Make sure the child's face is clearly visible, fully uncovered, and facing the camera as much as possible.
Printing Your Photos for Submission
The application process requires physical printed copies rather than a digital file upload[1]. You need to provide three printed color identity photos directly to the office[1].
The source requires three color identity photos[1]. Confirm their dimensions and print format with the issuing office before preparing them.
Avoiding Common Mistakes and Rejections
Check that your photos are clear before submitting them. The source does not list reasons a photo may be rejected.
Make sure you bring exactly three physical copies, as the authority explicitly asks for three photos[1]. Double-check that your lighting is bright and even across your entire face, and that nothing obstructs your facial features. Following these practical steps helps you prepare your application materials correctly.
Preparing Your Digital Copy and Final Checks
Even though the final submission requires printed photos, having a clean digital copy stored safely on your device can be very useful for your personal records or other digital forms.
You can check your framing, lighting, and sharpness on your screen before you visit a printing kiosk. Review all your paperwork, including your identification forms and supporting documents, to make sure everything matches the official expectations. Taking time to prepare your photo properly saves you time and effort when you visit the office to submit your application.
Frequently asked questions
What size photo do I need for a Senegalese ordinary passport?
The authority publishes no single official size, but 35 by 45 mm (1.38 by 1.77 in) is a size commonly used in practice[1]. Always check with the issuing office to confirm the exact dimensions.
How many photos must I submit with my application?
The authority requests three color identity photos as part of your application file[1].
Can I submit my passport photo digitally online?
No, the Ministère de l’Intérieur et de la Sécurité publique requires physical printed photos for this document[1].
What are the rules for children's passports?
The ordinary passport is accessible from birth, but applications for minors require parental authorization and specific parental supporting documents indicated by the authority[1].
Does the official source specify a background color?
The official source states photo couleur d’identité, but it does not specify the background color[1].