Photos for the French Minor Foreigner Circulation Document (DCEM)
A DCEM application requires the child's e-photo[1]. This document, known as the Document de circulation pour étranger mineur (DCEM), is issued for eligible foreign minors resident in France[1]. A parent or guardian completes the steps on behalf of the child[1].
Official Size and Dimensions
The general French identity-photo format is 35 by 45 millimeters[2]. The DCEM page requires an e-photo but does not give photo dimensions[1]. These dimensions equal 1.38 by 1.77 inches.
The DCEM page requires an e-photo code for the child's photo[1]. It does not give a specific crop or head-height measurement. When you prepare the image, keep the framing balanced and leave space around the face.
Head Height and Background Specifications
The official DCEM page does not set a specific rule for head height[1]. Because of this, you should keep the child's head centered and clearly visible within the frame. Make sure the entire face appears clearly from the chin to the top of the head.
The DCEM application requires the child's e-photo[1]. French identity-photo law sets a size of 35 by 45 millimeters[2], but the DCEM page gives no further crop or background details[1].
The E-Photo Requirement and Online Application
For eligible foreign minors resident in France, the application is made by a parent or guardian[1]. You must submit the request online using an e-photo code[1]. This digital code links your uploaded image file directly to your online form.
Use the e-photo code supplied by a photographer or approved booth[1].
Rules for Children and Infants
The application requires an e-photo of the child, including for young children[1].
If you are photographing a baby or toddler, lay them on a plain surface or support them gently out of sight. Keep their face straight toward the camera with a neutral expression if possible. Wait until the child is calm and awake before you take the picture.
How to Take the Photo at Home
The cited sources do not say whether a photo taken at home with a phone or camera will meet the DCEM e-photo requirement. Use an e-photo code from a photographer or approved booth[1].
The cited DCEM instructions do not give rules for taking the photo at home.
Checking Your Photo
The cited sources do not list image-quality checks or say that blurry or dark photos will be rejected during online submission.
The cited DCEM instructions do not specify these pose, eye, hair, or background rules.
Collecting the Physical Document
After you apply online, the prefecture or sub-prefecture responsible for your address processes the request[1]. The parent or guardian must collect the DCEM with the child[1].
The parent or guardian must collect the DCEM at the prefecture or sub-prefecture with the child[1].
Frequently asked questions
What size must the DCEM photo be?
Are babies and toddlers required to have an e-photo?
Yes, a child applicant's e-photo is required, including for young children[1].
How do I submit the photo for the application?
The application is made by a parent or guardian and submitted online, using an e-photo code[1].
Who issues the DCEM in Guadeloupe?
The document is issued by the Préfecture de la Guadeloupe under the French Ministry of the Interior[1].
What happens after I apply online?
The child attends the prefecture to collect the physical document once it is ready[1].
Can I take the child's photo using a smartphone at home?
The cited DCEM instructions require an e-photo code from a photographer or approved booth[1]. They do not say whether a photo taken at home can be used.