Panamanian ID, Passport, and Visa Photo Requirements
Getting the right photo for your official Panamanian document requires attention to specific size and submission rules. Use the tool above to format your images correctly before you print or upload them. Taking a few moments to understand these details helps you avoid common mistakes when you submit your paperwork.
Panamanian Passport Photos
The supplied information lists 50.8×50.8 mm as a common size for Panamanian passport photos[1]. It does not list a head-height measurement.
You can submit these photos in either digital or printed formats depending on how you file your application[1]. Make sure your face is centered and clearly visible against a plain background without any distracting objects or patterns behind you. Stand or sit straight so your shoulders are square to the camera. Remove hats, sunglasses, and large accessories that obscure your facial features.
Child Passport Photos
The supplied information lists a 50.8×50.8 mm common size for a Panamanian child passport photo[1]. It does not list a head-height measurement.
You can submit these images both digitally and in print to meet the application guidelines[1]. Keep infants calm and supported, ensuring their eyes are open and their face is fully visible to avoid rejection. For very young babies, lay them down on a plain white or off-white sheet and take the photo from directly above. Make sure no hands or supporting objects appear in the final frame.
National ID and Driving Licence
The supplied information lists 35×45 mm as the common size for national ID and driving licence photos[2][3]. It does not list head-height measurements.
The supplied information lists digital submission for national ID and driving licence photos[2][3]. Follow the application instructions for submitting the image and its file specifications.
Residence, Work, and Firearms Permits
The supplied information lists 32×26 mm as a common size for residence, work, and firearms permit photos[4][5][6]. It does not list head-height measurements.
The supplied information lists printed submission for these permit photos[4][5][6]. Check the relevant office’s instructions for how to submit the photo. Because these permit sizes are smaller, print them clearly on high-quality photo paper so facial details remain sharp and distinct.
Tourist Visa Photos
The supplied information lists an official size of 50.8×50.8 mm for the Panamanian tourist visa photo[7]. It does not list a head-height measurement.
You must submit printed copies directly with your tourist visa application file[7]. Check your printed sheet to verify the dimensions with a ruler before you hand it in to the office. Keep the print clean, free of smudges, and unbent.
Practical Tips for Your Photo
Taking a clear photo at home saves you time and prevents costly delays. Stand facing a bright window to get even lighting on your face without creating harsh shadows behind your ears. Ask a friend or family member to take the picture instead of holding the camera yourself, as selfie angles distort facial proportions.
Keep the camera at your eye level and about one to one and a half meters away from your face. Review your image carefully to check that your expression is neutral, your mouth is closed, and your eyes are wide open. Avoid wearing uniforms or clothing that matches your background color.
Checking and Printing Your Photo
Before you print or upload your image, open it on a computer screen and check the cropping. Make sure there is enough space around your head and shoulders.
If you are printing at home, use matte or gloss photo paper and set your printer to its highest quality setting. Never use plain office printer paper because the ink will bleed and blur your facial features. Use a physical ruler on the printed photo to verify that the millimeters match the official requirements for your specific document type.
Frequently asked questions
What size is a Panama passport photo?
The Panamanian passport photo measures 50.8×50.8 mm[1].
Do I need printed or digital photos for a Panama tourist visa?
You must submit printed copies directly with your tourist visa application[7].
What is the head height requirement for Panama ID cards?
The official head height requirement is not set for the Panamanian national ID card photo[2].
Can I use the same photo size for a work permit and a passport?
Can I use a selfie for my Panamanian document photo?
Selfie angles distort facial proportions, so it is best to have a friend or family member take your picture from a distance of one to one and a half meters.