Complete guide to Italy photo documents for passports

Italy photo document requirements for passports

Here’s what you need to know to prepare your passport photos correctly.

• Two identical photos are required.
• Each photo must be 35mm by 45mm.
• The background of the photos should be off-white, ensuring no patterns or other distractions.
• Your head must occupy 70-80% of the photo, showing a close-up of your head and the top of your shoulders.
• Photos must be in color, not black and white.
• Head coverings are allowed only for religious reasons and must not obscure facial features.
• If you wear glasses, ensure the lenses are glare-free, and your eyes are visible. Tinted lenses and thick frames aren’t permitted.
• Wear dark-colored clothes to contrast with the off-white background.
• The photo should be in sharp focus and printed on high-quality, high-resolution paper.
• Ensure the lighting is uniform, without shadows or reflections on your face, and avoid red-eye.
• You must look at the camera with a neutral expression and your mouth closed.
• Only you should be in the photo; no objects, chair backs, toys, or other people should be visible.

Adhering to these requirements will help avoid delays in your passport application process.

Italy passport photo requirements for children

The requirements for Italian passport photos for children are similar to that of adults. However, there are a few adjustments to accommodate the practical challenges of photographing younger children.

• For very young children and infants, it’s ok if their eyes aren’t fully open. The neutral expression rule is relaxed because maintaining a completely neutral expression can be difficult for young children.
• If infants cannot support their heads, the photo can be taken while they are lying down on a plain, off-white background. Ensure no other objects, including hands or props, are visible in the photo.
• Children should face the camera directly with their heads straight, similar to adult requirements. However, ensure the child’s full face is visible without being blocked by toys or pacifiers.
• Ensure that the child is the only person visible in the photo. That means there should be no signs of anyone holding the child, even if they are trying to support them out of frame.

Submitting your Italian passport photo online

When submitting your Italian passport photo online, the requirements closely mirror those for physical submissions but include specific parameters suitable for digital processing.

1. The digital image should measure 827 pixels by 1063 pixels at a resolution of 600 DPI. This reflects the physical dimension requirement of 35mm by 45mm.
2. You must upload your photo in JPEG format. The file should not exceed 500KB to ensure it uploads successfully.
3. The background should be white, clearly contrasting the subject.
4. Online services are available that can help you adjust your photo to meet these criteria, including correcting background, head tilt, and image contrast. For example, you can use passportphotos.com to adjust your image to meet the criteria automatically.

Italy photo document requirements for nationals

For Italian nationals, whether applying for a passport inside Italy or abroad, the core photo requirements, such as the size, background, and facial expression, remain consistent. However, there are specific considerations to keep in mind depending on where you are applying.

If applying from abroad:

• Passport applications must be submitted at an Italian embassy or consulate. It’s crucial to check with the specific office as additional documentation might be required based on local regulations.
• Consular fees can vary based on the country from which you are applying. These fees are often payable in the local currency.
• For urgent travel needs, Italian consulates can issue emergency travel documents based on specific criteria. You’ll still need to provide compliant passport photos.

If applying within Italy:

• Passport applications can be submitted at local police stations or designated post offices with passport processing facilities.
• In addition to photo requirements, ensure you have all necessary documentation, which may include an identity card and proof of residency. Local municipal offices can provide detailed guidance.

For both scenarios, it’s best to schedule an appointment (often available online) to ensure that all paperwork, including photos, meets the specific requirements set by Italian authorities.

Streamlining your Italy photo documentation process

Have peace of mind knowing your passport photos will meet all Italian government specifications. PassportPhotos.com automatically adjusts your photos to the precise specifications—correcting background, alignment, and lighting—saving you time and effort.

Get high-quality, compliant photos quickly, no matter where you are, guaranteeing a smooth and swift application process.