Beninese Resident Card Photo Guide
Preparing your Beninese resident card application requires gathering official documents and identity photos. Read on to learn what you need to know about photo requirements and submission.
Official Size and Guidelines
The Direction de l’Émigration et de l’Immigration (DEI) processes applications for both ordinary and privileged resident cards in Benin[1][2][3]. When you look at the official guidelines, the authority publishes no single official size for the required identity photos[1][2].
Because of this, photo studios typically rely on 35x45 mm (1.38x1.77 inches) as a common practical crop default. Since the exact head height and margins are not set by the authority, you must check directly with the issuing office if you have any doubts about what they accept for your paperwork.
Who Takes the Photo
Submitting your paperwork involves specific steps at the immigration office. Ordinary and privileged resident card applications require two identity photos to be handed in with your file[1][2].
Furthermore, the DEI takes the photo itself when you arrive for enrolment[3]. This means that while you bring physical copies for your paperwork, the official image used on your card is captured on-site by the authority during your visit.
Using the Tool to Prepare
You might want to check your appearance or prepare prints for other personal uses before you go to your appointment. You can use the tool above to crop your pictures to the common 35x45 mm size easily.
The system processes everything inside your web browser so your photo never leaves your device safely. Keep in mind that the tool on this page helps you rehearse or prepare a copy, but it does not replace the official photo taken by the DEI during enrolment[3].
Background and Lighting
Taking practice pictures at home requires attention to lighting and setup. The DEI documents do not specify background colors or dimensions for the required prints[1][2].
To get a clear image for your own practice, face a bright window to use natural light instead of harsh overhead lamps. Ask a friend or family member to hold the camera at your eye level, standing about one to one and a half meters away. Use a plain background behind you so the camera focuses entirely on your face without distractions.
Glasses, Headwear, and Expression
Official rules regarding glasses and headwear are unspecified in the guidelines published by the DEI[1][2]. If you choose to wear your everyday prescription glasses for practice photos, make sure reflections or glares do not hide your eyes.
Keep your head straight and maintain a calm expression. Because the official paperwork does not list strict rules for clothing or accessories, keeping your look simple and standard is always a safe approach for any identification document.
Children and Family Applications
Families applying for resident cards together should note specific administrative details. The DEI states no separate child-specific photo rules in their official documents[1][2].
If you need to prepare photos for younger dependents, the standard practice is to lay a plain sheet down or find a neutral wall. Make sure the child faces forward with eyes open. Always verify age exceptions and submission rules directly with the local office before you submit your file.
Submitting Your File
Preparing your application means gathering all requested documents alongside your photos. The application process requires you to submit printed photographs with your paperwork[1][2].
You can print your cropped 35x45 mm images on an ordinary 4x6-inch photo sheet at a local store or kiosk. Bring these prints along with your identification forms to your appointment. Following these practical steps helps your paperwork stay organized while you complete your registration at the immigration office.
Frequently asked questions
What size is the Beninese resident card photo?
Does the DEI take the photo?
Yes, you are enrolled at the DEI, and the authority takes the photo itself during the appointment process[3].
How many photos do I need to bring?
Can I use the tool on this page for my official application?
The tool helps you prepare or rehearse copies, but the DEI takes the official photo during your enrolment[3].