Photos for Your French Naturalisation Application
Getting the right photo for your French naturalisation application is an important step. This guide explains the official size and submission rules so you can prepare your photos correctly.
Official Size and Basic Requirements
For postal filing, the naturalisation notice requests two 35 by 45 mm photos[1].
The official guidelines state that your head must be uncovered in the picture[1]. Interestingly, the authority does not set a specific head height rule in millimeters, and the official notice reviewed specifies size and uncovered head but does not specify background colour[1]. Even without strict background colour rules, choosing a plain, neutral background is always smart practice.
Rules for Postal and Online Filing
For postal filing, the notice requests two 35 by 45 mm photos with the head uncovered[1].
Furthermore, postal submissions require you to label the back of each photo clearly with your name, given names, and date of birth[1]. Please note that online filing workflows may differ from postal instructions[1], so you should always read the specific checklist provided for your exact application pathway.
Setting Up Good Lighting and Angles at Home
Taking your photo at home saves time and lets you prepare your images before printing. Start by finding a plain, solid-colored wall inside your home. Stand a short distance away from the wall to prevent heavy shadows from falling behind you.
Natural light works best for ID photos. Face directly toward a bright window so light illuminates both sides of your face evenly. Avoid standing under harsh overhead lamps that create dark circles under your eyes or heavy shadows beneath your nose.
Position your camera or smartphone carefully. Ask a friend or family member to take the picture for you instead of attempting a handheld selfie, which distorts facial proportions. Keep the camera lens at your exact eye level, about one to one and a half meters away from your face.
Using the Tool Above to Crop Your Photo
Once you have an image, you can use the tool above to prepare it for printing. Check the application instructions for your filing method.
Adjust the framing so your face sits correctly within the crop boundaries. The tool helps your final image match the required 35 by 45 mm dimensions. After cropping, the system generates a printable sheet containing your photos arranged for standard paper sizes.
Printing Your Photos on a 4x6-Inch Sheet
Printing your photo sheet at home or at a local retail kiosk is straightforward once you have the file ready. Save the generated image sheet onto a USB drive or your phone, or print it directly if your printer connects to your device. Always choose a standard 4 by 6-inch photo layout.
Print and cut out two 35 by 45 mm photos for postal filing[1].
Common Reasons Photos Are Refused
For postal filing, check that each photo measures 35 by 45 mm[1].
The notice requires the head to be uncovered. For postal applications, write your name, given names, and date of birth on the back of each photo[1].
Frequently asked questions
What size do I need for a French naturalisation photo?
The official size is 35 by 45 mm, or 1.38 by 1.77 inches[1].
How many photos must I submit for postal filing?
For postal filing, the naturalisation notice requests two photos[1].
Do I need to write anything on the back of the photos?
Yes, for postal filing, you must label the back of each photo with your name, given names, and date of birth[1].
Can I wear a hat or head covering in the photo?
No, headwear is not permitted because the official notice requires your head to be uncovered[1].
Does the authority set a specific background colour?
No, the official notice reviewed specifies size and uncovered head but does not specify background colour[1].