Requirements for Your French Seafarer Identity Document Photo
Follow these exact rules to prepare a proper photo for your French seafarer identity and travel document application. Getting the details right helps avoid rejection by the French maritime administration[1].
Official Photo Size and Head Measurements
Your printed photo must measure 35 by 45 millimeters, which converts to about 1.38 by 1.77 inches[1]. These exact dimensions are mandatory for your application files and must not be altered[1].
The size of your head, measured precisely from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head, must fall between 32 and 36 millimeters[1].
Frame the photo so the head measures 32 to 36 mm, as required[1].
Background and Color Rules
The background behind you must follow the official French identity-photo standard, which requires a plain light blue or light gray surface[1].
White backgrounds are strictly forbidden under any circumstances, so you cannot use a plain white wall or sheet[1].
Make sure there are no shadows cast on the wall behind you, and avoid any patterns, textures, or household objects visible in the frame[1]. Good lighting will help keep the background smooth and uniform across the entire image[1]. Avoid wearing clothing that matches the light blue or light gray background so your shoulders and body contrast clearly with the backdrop[1].
Facial Expression and Posture
You must maintain a completely neutral expression on your face when the picture is taken[1].
Keep your mouth shut firmly and do not smile, smirk, frown, or raise your eyebrows in any way[1].
Look straight ahead into the camera lens with your eyes wide open and fully visible[1]. Any unnatural facial gestures will cause the maritime administration to refuse your photo outright[1]. Relax your facial muscles completely to achieve a natural, neutral look that satisfies the official guidelines[1].
Headwear and Glasses Rules
You are not permitted to wear hats, caps, headbands, or any other head coverings that obscure your hair or your hairline[1].
Head coverings are not permitted[1].
Glasses are allowed only under strict conditions, meaning your eyes must be clearly seen through the lenses without any dark tint, heavy frames, or light glare reflecting off the glass[1]. If your glasses cause any reflections, you should remove them before taking the picture[1].
Taking Your Photo at Home
To take your picture at home, find a room with bright, even light facing a window to illuminate your face evenly without harsh glares[1].
Stand in front of a plain light blue or light gray wall that matches the required background colors closely[1].
Ask a friend or family member to take the picture using a digital camera or smartphone held at your exact eye level, about one to one and a half meters away from your face[1].
Taking multiple test shots helps you find the best angle and lighting setup before you finalize your selection[1].
You can use the tool above to crop your image to the correct 35 by 45 millimeter size and verify your head proportions before printing[1].
Printing Your Photo for Submission
This document requires a physical, printed photo to include with your application package sent to the French maritime administration[1].
You can place your properly cropped image onto a standard 4 by 6 inch photo sheet layout to print it cheaply at any local store kiosk or photo printer[1].
Check the printed photo sheet with a physical ruler to verify that the final printed dimensions match the required 35 by 45 millimeters exactly[1]. Make sure the print quality is sharp and clear with no pixelation or ink streaks[1].
Common Reasons for Refusal
Photos are commonly refused if the lighting creates harsh shadows on your face or the background behind you[1].
Other frequent reasons for rejection include wearing tinted glasses, having your mouth open, tilting your head, or failing to meet the exact chin-to-top-of-head measurement[1].
Check the photo against the stated requirements before submitting it[1].
Frequently asked questions
Can I wear glasses in my seafarer photo?
Glasses are conditional; they are allowed only if your eyes are clearly visible and there is no glare on the lenses[1].
What background colors are allowed?
The background must be plain light blue or light gray, and white backgrounds are strictly forbidden[1].
How big should my head appear in the photo?
The distance from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head must measure between 32 and 36 millimeters[1].
Is a digital upload accepted for this document?
The French maritime administration requires a printed photo submission for this application[1].
Can I smile in the photo?
No, you must maintain a neutral facial expression with your mouth completely closed[1].