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France vs Italy passport photo: both 35 × 45 mm
France and Italy both ask for 35 × 45 mm. Head height, background, glasses and file rules for the passport photo, side by side from each issuing authority.
Can you use the same photo for both?
Partially. France and Italy publish the same print size (35 × 45 mm), and the background rules overlap but not on white — France: Light grey or light blue; Italy: Plain, one colour. A background that both rules allow works for both; check each linked page before reusing one photo.
In short
France and Italy use the same photo dimensions for this document. The other specifications (head-height, background, glasses) may still differ — see below.
Specification table
Every value in this table is taken from the official publications of the two issuing authorities. Open either country page for the full rule set, the printable layout and the source links.
| Attribute | France | Italy |
|---|---|---|
| Photo size= same | 35 × 45 mm | 35 × 45 mm |
| Head height≠ differs | 71–80% (32–36 mm) | 71–78% |
| Background | The background must be plain and light — light grey or light blue; a white background is not allowed. | Even plain background without shadows. |
| Glasses | Clear lenses without reflections; eyes must be fully visible. | Eyes must be fully visible without strong reflections. |
| Expression | Neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open. | Neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open. |
| Head covering | The head must be bare (La tête doit être nue): hats, headscarves, and headbands are prohibited; there are no exceptions. | The authority does not publish this detail |
| Pose | Full face, head centred, no tilt or rotation. | Full face, no noticeable tilt; face turned towards the lens. |
| Lighting / shadows | No shadows, creases, or marks on the photo. | No harsh shadows or overexposure. |
| Attire | Face must be fully open, hair must not cover the eyes; ears must be visible. | Keep the original clothing and a visible shoulder line. |
| Authority | Service-Public.fr / Ministère de l’Intérieur | Ministero degli Affari Esteri e della Cooperazione Internazionale |
| Last verified | 1 Oct 2026 | 1 Oct 2026 |
Read each rule set in full
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the same photo for France and Italy?
Partially. France and Italy publish the same print size (35 × 45 mm), and the background rules overlap but not on white — France: Light grey or light blue; Italy: Plain, one colour. A background that both rules allow works for both; check each linked page before reusing one photo.
Which photo is larger — France or Italy?
Neither — both countries use the same 35 × 45 mm photo for this document.
What background colour do France and Italy require?
France requires: Light grey or light blue. Italy requires: Plain, one colour.