When should I use the 35x40mm format?

The 35x40mm format is used by certain Italian consulates (Boston, Houston, Toronto, and others). The standard format is 35x45mm. Check with your specific consulate for their accepted photo size.

What background color is required?

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

Italy Passport Photo (35×40 mm — New Standard) Requirements and Size Guide

Q: What size is the 35x40mm Italy passport photo?

The 35x40mm Italy passport photo is exactly 35 × 40 mm (3.5 × 4.0 cm). Your head should occupy 70–80% of the photograph (approximately 28–32 mm from chin to top of head).

Q: Can I wear glasses?

Glasses are strongly recommended to be removed. Sunglasses and tinted lenses are always prohibited.

Everything you need to know about the 35×40mm Italy passport photo format, including exact dimensions, ICAO biometric standards, and which Italian consulates accept this format.

Italy Passport Photo Specifications (35×40mm)

Requirement	Specification
Country	Italy (Italia)
Document Type	Passport (Passaporto / Biometric)
Photo Size	35 × 40 mm (3.5 × 4.0 cm)
Resolution (DPI)	600
Digital Photo Size	827 × 945 pixels (at 600 DPI)
Head Size	28–32 mm from chin to top of head (70–80% of photo)
Top Margin	Approximately 2.5 mm from top of photo to top of hair
Background Color	Plain white
Printable	Yes — on matte photo-quality paper
Color	Color only
Number of Photos Required	2 identical photos
Recency	Taken within the last 6 months

Size Diagram

Key measurements: The photo must be exactly 35×40 mm (3.5×4.0 cm). Your head should occupy 70–80% of the photograph (~28–32 mm from chin to top of head). Top margin: approximately 2.5 mm.

Don't worry about getting the perfect photo. Upload any photo taken at home, and our AI will automatically crop to 35×40 mm, remove the background, and ensure your photo meets all ICAO requirements.

Detailed Requirements

When to use this format: The 35×40mm format is used by certain Italian consulates (Boston, Houston, Toronto, and others). The standard format is 35×45mm. Check with your specific consulate for their accepted photo size before applying.

Photo Basics

Must be in color, taken within the last 6 months
Clear, sharp, and in focus with high contrast
No filters, digital alterations, retouching, or manipulation
No scanned or photocopied photos

Pose and Expression

Face the camera directly — full front view
Neutral expression — mouth closed, no smiling
Both eyes open and clearly visible
Both earlobes visible, shoulders visible

Background

Plain white uniform background, no shadows, patterns, or objects

Glasses

Strongly recommended to be removed. Sunglasses and tinted lenses always prohibited. If wearing prescription glasses: no glare, eyes fully visible, no heavy frames.

Head Coverings

Only for religious reasons
Full face visible from chin to forehead and both sides

Clothing

Normal everyday clothing, no uniforms, avoid white tops

Source: Consulate of Italy in Houston — ICAO Photo Guidelines

Make Passport/Visa Photo for Other Countries →

How to Take an Italy Passport Photo at Home

Use a Smartphone

Any modern smartphone camera works. Clean the lens, set highest resolution. Use a tripod or ask someone to take the photo.

Good Lighting

Face a window with natural daylight. Avoid direct sunlight. Our AI will fix the background for you.

Dress Appropriately

Normal clothing, no uniforms, avoid white tops. Religious head coverings allowed if face fully visible.

Pose Correctly

Head facing forward, shoulders relaxed. Both earlobes visible. Hair tucked behind ears.

Neutral Expression

Eyes open, mouth closed, no smiling.

Good and Bad Examples

Frequently Asked Questions

What size is the 35x40mm Italy passport photo?

Exactly 35 × 40 mm (3.5 × 4.0 cm). Your head should occupy 70–80% (~28–32 mm from chin to top of head).

When should I use 35x40mm instead of 35x45mm?

The 35x40mm format is required by certain Italian consulates (Boston, Houston, Toronto). The standard is 35x45mm. Check with your specific consulate.

Can I wear glasses?

Strongly recommended to remove them. Sunglasses and tinted lenses always prohibited.

What background is required?

Plain white, uniform, no shadows or patterns.

Can I take it with my phone?

Yes! Upload to Passport Size Photo and our AI will crop to 35×40mm and ensure compliance.

How many photos do I need?

2 identical printed photos for your consulate appointment.