Preparing Your Photo for a French Naturalisation Application
You need the correct photo for your French naturalisation application. Use the tool above to crop your image to the right size and prepare it for printing.
Official Size and Head Dimensions
Your application requires a photo that measures 35 by 45 mm, which equals about 1.38 by 1.77 inches[1].
The supplied naturalisation notice does not state a head-height measurement. Follow any photo instructions provided with your application[1].
Keep your shoulders level and look straight at the camera so your face is centered in the frame.
Background and Lighting Requirements
The notice requests normalized identity photos but does not specify a background color[1].
Face a bright window to get even, natural light on your face. Avoid harsh shadows behind your head or dark patches on your skin.
Stand a little bit away from the wall behind you so you do not cast a dark shadow on the background. Turn off any overhead lights that create yellow or uneven lighting tones on your skin.
Expression, Glasses, and Headwear
The supplied notice does not specify an expression or mouth rule. Follow any photo instructions provided with your application[1].
The supplied notice does not specify whether glasses are allowed[1]. Follow any photo instructions provided with your application.
The supplied notice does not specify a headwear rule[1]. Follow any photo instructions provided with your application.
The notice does not give an expression or mouth rule. Check the instructions for your application.
Rules for Children
If you are submitting a joint application that includes children, each child needs their own photo[1].
Make sure each child's photo follows the instructions for your application.
For babies or toddlers, you can lay them on a plain light blanket on the floor and take the picture from directly above, keeping your camera steady.
Submission and Photo Specifications
Applicants must provide two 35 by 45 mm photos for postal filing[1].
Write your name, first name(s), and date of birth on the back of each photo[1].
Write carefully on the back of each photo.
Taking Your Photo at Home
Stand about one to one and a half meters away from the camera. Keep the camera lens at your exact eye level to avoid odd angles.
Ask someone to take the picture and check that your face is centered and clearly visible.
Keep your head straight and face the camera.
Printing Your Photo Sheet
Crop your photo to 35 by 45 mm before printing.
Print the photo at the required size and cut it out carefully.
Check that the printed photo measures 35 by 45 mm.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A common mistake is using a selfie stick or holding the phone too close, which distorts facial features and changes your proportions.
Another error is wearing tinted glasses, heavy makeup, or large hair accessories that hide your facial features.
Use even lighting so your face is clear.
Frequently asked questions
What size do I need for my naturalisation photo?
You need a photo that measures 35 by 45 mm[1].
Can I wear glasses in the photo?
The supplied notice does not specify whether glasses are allowed[1]. Follow any photo instructions provided with your application.
Do children need their own photos?
Yes, children included in a joint application each require a separate photo[1].
How many photos must I submit?
Applicants provide two 35 by 45 mm photos for postal filing[1].
What should I write on the back of the photo?
You must write your name and date of birth on the back of each photo[1].
What background color should I use?
The notice requests normalized identity photos but does not state a background color[1].