Puerto Rico Passport, Visa, and ID Photo Guide
Get the right dimensions, background rules, and printing instructions for your Puerto Rico passport, visa, driver's license, and ID photos before you apply.
Official Documents Covered for Puerto Rico
If you live in Puerto Rico, you need specific photo sizes depending on the official document you are requesting. This guide covers the U.S. passport photo (Puerto Rico applications) (51×51 mm)[1], U.S. child passport photo (Puerto Rico applications) (51×51 mm)[1], and U.S. visitor visa photo for travel to Puerto Rico (51×51 mm)[2].
It also details the requirements for the U.S. student visa photo for study in Puerto Rico (51×51 mm)[2], Puerto Rico driver's license photo (35×45 mm)[3], Puerto Rico identification card photo (35×45 mm)[3], Puerto Rico voter identification card photo (35×45 mm)[3], U.S. permanent resident card photo (Puerto Rico) (35×45 mm)[4], and U.S. employment authorization document photo (Puerto Rico) (35×45 mm)[4].
U.S. Passports and Visas
For U.S. passports and child passports processed in Puerto Rico, the official size is 51×51 mm[1]. Your head height inside the final picture must measure between 25 and 35 mm from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head[1]. You must submit these particular photographs in a printed format[1].
For U.S. visitor and student visas, the size requirements match the standard passport dimensions at 51×51 mm with a head height of 25–35 mm[2]. You can submit these as either printed copies or digital files depending on the current application stage[2].
Puerto Rico Local IDs and Driver's Licenses
Local identification documents in Puerto Rico use a different sizing standard compared to federal passports. The Puerto Rico driver's license photo, Puerto Rico identification card photo, and Puerto Rico voter identification card photo require a 35×45 mm size[3].
The verified information does not specify a head-height measurement for these photos. It lists printed submission for these documents; check the relevant office’s instructions for how to submit them[3].
Immigration and Work Authorization Documents
Federal immigration and work papers processed for residents of Puerto Rico also have distinct size requirements. The U.S. permanent resident card photo (Puerto Rico) and the U.S. employment authorization document photo (Puerto Rico) both measure 35×45 mm[4].
The verified information does not specify a head-height measurement for these photos. It lists printed submission for both documents[4]. Follow the submission instructions for your application.
Background and Lighting Rules
For U.S. passport photos, use a plain white or off-white background[1]. Check the relevant office’s instructions for local ID photos.
For a U.S. passport photo, face the camera and use a neutral expression. Do not wear eyeglasses unless you have a medical need[1]. Check the visa photo instructions for any separate requirements.
Clothing and Appearance Requirements
For a U.S. passport photo, wear ordinary clothing rather than a uniform[1]. Check local ID instructions for clothing requirements.
Head coverings worn daily for religious or medical purposes are allowed, but your full face must be visible from the hairline to the chin[1].
Formatting Your Print at Home
You can use the tool above to crop an image to the listed dimensions. Check the application instructions for how to print or submit the photo.
Check that your printed photo is sharp, clear, and has no ink smudges, creases, or pixelation before you attach it to your application[1].
Frequently asked questions
What size is a Puerto Rico passport photo?
A Puerto Rico passport photo must be 51×51 mm with a head height of 25 to 35 mm[1].
Can I wear glasses in my ID photo?
For U.S. passport photos, eyeglasses are not allowed unless you have a medical need[1]. Check the visa photo instructions for their rules.
What size is a Puerto Rico driver's license photo?
A Puerto Rico driver's license photo is 35×45 mm[3].