Free France Passport Photo Maker
Use our free AI maker to snap and generate a compliant France Passport photo. Exact 35x45mm (1.4x1.8 in) dimensions with a light grey background at 300 DPI.
Requirements Summary
Dimensions
35 x 45 mm
1.4 x 1.8 inches
Resolution
300 DPI
Min 413x531px
Background
Light grey
Head Size
70% — 80%
of photo height
Eye Position
55%
from bottom
Official Requirements
- Photo must be 35x45mm
- Plain light grey or light blue background — WHITE IS PROHIBITED
- Face (chin to crown) 32-36mm (70-80% of photo)
- Head bare — no hats, scarves, or headbands
- Neutral expression, mouth closed
- Both eyes open and clearly visible
- Ears should be clear
- Taken within the last 6 months
- Taken by qualified professional or approved photo booth
Apply officially
Once your photo is ready, submit your application via the official France government portal.
Open official portal ↗Frequently Asked Questions
What size is a French passport photo?
A French passport photo is 35×45 mm — the standard ICAO biometric size used across the EU. The face (chin to crown) must measure 32–36 mm (70–80% of photo height). The same spec is used for the French CNI (Carte Nationale d'Identité), permis de conduire, and titre de séjour.
Why is white background prohibited for French passport photos?
France uniquely requires a plain light grey or light blue background — pure white is explicitly rejected. The reason is that pure white can wash out the facial outline at biometric scanners. Light grey provides better contrast for facial recognition, which is why France's ANTS (Agence Nationale des Titres Sécurisés) enforces it strictly.
Can I wear glasses in a French passport photo?
No. France banned eyeglasses from passport and ID photos in 2018 to align with EU biometric standards. Even prescription glasses must be removed. Sunglasses or tinted lenses are never accepted. Medical-necessity exceptions require a doctor's certificate.
How recent must a French passport photo be?
Within the last 6 months. ANTS checks for recent likeness. The photo must also be taken by a qualified professional or at an approved photo booth (Photomaton agréé) — French authorities verify this via the photo's e-photo digital signature when available.
Where can I get a French passport photo taken?
Photomaton booths are everywhere in France — train stations, post offices, and supermarkets — and cost €5–7 with the e-photo digital signature accepted by ANTS. Photo studios charge €15–25. Outside France, format the 35×45 mm spec with light grey background yourself; print at any photo lab.
Can I smile in a French passport photo?
No. France requires a strictly neutral expression with mouth closed. No teeth, no smile, no exaggerated expressions. Mairie staff and ANTS reject smiling photos at the appointment, forcing a re-shoot.
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Pro Tips
- Use natural, even lighting
- Keep a neutral expression
- Look directly into the lens
- Remove glasses and hats