Irish passport photo rules in plain words
The Department of Foreign Affairs accepts printed and online photos. A printed photo is 35x45 mm (1.38 x 1.77 in) at minimum, up to 38x50 mm. For an online application the photo must be a JPEG of at least 715x951 pixels and at most 9 MB (9216 KB). The background should be plain light grey, white or cream.
- Age of photo: taken within the last 6 months.
- Framing for online photos: head to mid-torso, with space around the head.
- Glasses: allowed if there is no glare.
- Head covering: religious only, with the face fully visible.
- Head size: not specified officially.
How to take the photo at home with a phone
Stand in front of a plain light grey, white or cream wall and use even window light on your face. Hold the phone at eye height and look straight into the lens with a neutral expression. For the online version, include your head and the upper part of your chest, with some space around your head.
- Check glasses for reflections or glare.
- Stand a little away from the wall to avoid shadows.
- Do not use filters or beauty modes.
IDPhotoly processes the image in your browser without uploading it, crops it, replaces the background and checks the framing. The digital file is 413x531 pixels as standard; if you apply online, check that the pixel size meets the 715x951 px minimum in the Irish requirement before uploading.
Common reasons for rejection
- Online file too small. The online photo must be at least 715x951 px.
- File over 9 MB. The upload limit is 9216 KB.
- Dark or patterned background. It must be plain light grey, white or cream.
- Old photo. It must be taken within 6 months.
- Glare on glasses or a hidden face. The eyes and face must be clearly visible.
Printing or uploading
For a paper application, print the photo at 35x45 mm (up to 38x50 mm) at 300 DPI. For an online application, upload a JPEG that meets the pixel and size limits above. Payment is one-time, and you receive a full refund if an authority rejects the photo.
Tips for a clean result
Keep your head upright, your shoulders level and your expression neutral. Do not resize the file after the compliance check, because that can change the framing.
Final checks before you submit
Decide first whether you apply on paper or online, because the two routes use different sizes. For the online route, view the file at full size and confirm that your head and the top of your torso are visible with some space around the head. For the paper route, ask the print shop for a matte or glossy finish without borders, and check the printed size with a ruler before you submit.