← All passport photosFrance Passport Photo Size 2026
Official France passport photo requirements for 2026. Resize and compress your photo to the exact dimensions and KB limit — free, instant, no upload needed.
French passport (passeport biométrique) photos must comply with ISO/IEC 19794-5 biometric standards. Applications are submitted in person at a mairie (town hall) or a France Services office. The photo must be printed on matte (not glossy) paper. France is one of the few countries that prefers a light grey or blue-grey background rather than pure white.
France Passport Photo Requirements 2026
Background
Light grey or blue-grey
Validity
10 years (adults), 5 years (under 18)
Photos needed
1 printed photo (in-person at mairie)
ℹ️ Biometric. Neutral expression. Eyes open and clearly visible.
⚠️ Common reasons France passport offices reject photos
- Pure white background instead of light grey or blue-grey
- Glossy photo paper (must be matte)
- Glasses worn
- Head not centred or tilted
- Shadows on the face or background
- Photo retouched or digitally altered
How to prepare your France passport photo
1
Take or choose a photo
Use a recent photo against a light grey or blue-grey background. Ensure your full face is visible and centred.
2
Open PhotoFit
Go to photofitapp.in — no account needed. Works on mobile and desktop.
3
Set dimensions to 413×531 px
Enter 413 as width and 531 as height in the Resize tab. Set the KB target to under 200 KB.
4
Download and submit
Download the resized JPEG. It will meet all France requirements for file size, dimensions, and format.
Frequently asked questions
What background does France require for passport photos?
France requires a light grey or blue-grey background. Unlike most countries, pure white is not preferred — aim for a neutral light grey.
Can I take a French passport photo at a photo booth?
Yes. Photo booths (photoautomates) at many French post offices and supermarkets produce compliant photos automatically. You can also take a digital photo and use PhotoFit to resize it.
Do French passport photos need to be matte or glossy?
Matte (non-glossy) finish is required for printed French passport photos. If printing at home, use matte photo paper.
How many photos do I need for a French passport application?
You need 1 printed compliant photo for the mairie. Bring it plus your identity documents to your appointment.
Other passport photo requirements