What background is required for a Cyprus ID card photo?

The background must be plain white with no patterns, shadows, or objects visible.

Cyprus ID Card Photo (30×40 mm) Requirements and Size Guide

Everything you need to know about Cyprus (Κύπρος) ID card photo requirements, including exact dimensions, background color, and how to take a compliant Cypriot ID card photo at home.

Cyprus ID Card Photo Specifications

Requirement	Specification
Country	Cyprus (Κύπρος)
Document Type	ID Card (Ταυτότητα) — Traditional Format
Photo Size	30 × 40 mm (3 × 4 cm)
Resolution (DPI)	600
Head Size	~30 mm from chin to top of head (70–80% of photo)
Top Margin	~2.5 mm from top of photo to top of head
Background Color	Plain white
Printable	Yes — on matte photographic paper
Digital Photo Size	708 × 944 pixels (at 600 DPI)
Color	Color only (black and white not accepted)
Recency	Taken within the last 6 months
Quantity	1–2 color photos
Issuing Authority	Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) / Civil Registry and Migration Department

Note: Cyprus ID card photos can be either 30×40 mm (traditional format) or 35×45 mm (EU standard format). Check with your local Civil Registry office which format they require.

Don't worry about getting the perfect photo. Upload any photo taken at home, and our AI-powered tool will automatically crop to the correct 30×40 mm size, remove and replace the background with white, adjust the head size, and ensure your photo meets all requirements.

Detailed Cyprus ID Card Photo Requirements

The Cyprus ID Card (Ταυτότητα) can use either the traditional 30×40 mm photo format or the EU standard 35×45 mm format. This page covers the 30×40 mm format. Below is a comprehensive guide to ensure your photo is accepted.

Photo Basics

Your photo must be in color — black and white photos are not accepted
Must be a recent photo, taken within the last 6 months
The photo must be clear and in focus, with no blurriness or pixelation
No filters or digital editing — do not apply beauty filters or digitally alter your appearance
Must reflect your current appearance
You need 1–2 color photos

Size and Dimensions

Photo size: exactly 30 × 40 mm (3 × 4 cm) — not the standard EU 35×45 mm
Your head should occupy 70–80% of the photograph
The distance from the top of the photo to the top of the head should be approximately 5 mm
Upper body (shoulders) must be visible

Pose and Expression

Face the camera directly — your head must not be tilted or turned
Maintain a neutral facial expression with your mouth closed
Both eyes must be open and clearly visible, looking straight into the camera
No smiling, frowning, or squinting
Ensure your face is fully visible from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead

Background

Use a plain white background
No patterns, textures, or objects visible behind you
No shadows on your face or behind your head

Glasses

Glasses are NOT allowed in Cypriot ID card photos. Remove all eyewear, including prescription glasses and sunglasses, before taking the photo.

Head Coverings and Hats

No hats or head coverings are allowed, unless worn daily for religious purposes
If worn for religious reasons, your full face must still be visible from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead
No headphones, earbuds, or wireless hands-free devices

Clothing

Wear normal everyday clothing
Do not wear uniforms
Avoid wearing white tops that may blend with the white background

Source: Cyprus Ministry of Foreign Affairs — Passport Requirements

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How to Take a Cyprus ID Card Photo at Home

You don't need a professional studio. Follow these simple steps using your smartphone.

Use a Smartphone or Digital Camera

Any modern smartphone camera can take a passport-quality photo. Make sure the lens is clean and set to the highest resolution. Ask someone to take the photo for you — avoid selfies.

Find Good Lighting

Stand facing a window with natural daylight for even lighting. Avoid direct sunlight which creates harsh shadows.

Tip: Don't worry if your background isn't perfectly white. Our AI tool will automatically replace it with white.

Dress Appropriately

Wear normal everyday clothing. Avoid uniforms and white tops. Make sure your hair does not cover your eyes.

Pose Correctly

Stand about 4 feet (1.2 meters) in front of the camera. Keep your shoulders relaxed and head level — not tilted.

Maintain a Neutral Expression

Keep your face relaxed with a neutral expression. Both eyes open, mouth closed. No smiling or frowning.

Good and Bad Examples

Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable ID card photos

Frequently Asked Questions

What size is a Cyprus ID card photo?

Cyprus ID card photos can be either 30×40 mm (3×4 cm, traditional format) or 35×45 mm (3.5×4.5 cm, EU standard). This page covers the 30×40 mm format. Check with your local Civil Registry office.

Should I use 30×40 mm or 35×45 mm for my Cyprus ID card?

Both formats are accepted, but check with your local Civil Registry office which format they prefer. The 35×45 mm EU standard is becoming more common.

Can I wear glasses in my Cyprus ID card photo?

No. Glasses are not allowed in Cypriot ID card photos. Remove all eyewear before taking the photo.

Can I take my Cyprus ID card photo with my phone?

Yes! Upload your phone photo to Passport Size Photo and our AI will automatically crop, resize, remove the background, and ensure it meets all 30×40 mm requirements.

What background color is required?

The background must be plain white. No patterns, objects, or shadows should be visible.

How many photos do I need for a Cyprus passport?

You need 1–2 color photos for your Cypriot passport application.

What happens if my photo is rejected?

If your ID card photo doesn't meet the requirements, your application will be delayed. Using Passport Size Photo ensures your photo meets all requirements before you submit.