Israel passport photos must measure 35×45 millimeters (approximately 1.38×1.77 inches). This rectangular format differs from the square 2×2 inch standard used by the United States and several other countries. The Israeli authorities specifically require this 35×45mm dimensions for all passport applications submitted through the Population and Immigration Authority (Rashut HaUkhlusin).
At a minimum resolution of 300 DPI, this translates to 413×531 pixels in digital terms. If you're taking the photo yourself or using an online service, these pixel dimensions ensure your image meets the print quality threshold. Lower resolutions result in blurry or pixelated prints that authorities will reject outright.
The head height requirement is strict: your face must occupy between 60% and 80% of the photo's vertical space. In concrete terms, that's 27-36mm from chin to crown on the 45mm frame — aim for 31.5mm (70%) as the safest position. Too small, and the facial features won't be clearly identifiable. Too large, and the biometric system rejects it.
Exact Israeli Passport Photo Size Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Width | 35mm / 1.38″ / 413px |
| Height | 45mm / 1.77″ / 531px |
| Aspect ratio | 7:9 |
| Minimum DPI | 300 |
| File format | JPEG or PNG |
| File size | 40KB–7MB (online portal) |
| Print paper | Matte or glossy photo paper |
Digital files on regular printer paper are not accepted. The background must be plain white, completely uniform with no shadows, patterns, or objects visible behind you.
When preparing your digital file, save it as JPEG or PNG at the exact pixel dimensions. If you're working with a larger image, you can scale down without quality loss, but never scale up — interpolation creates artifacts that examiners can spot.
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Israeli Passport Photo Size vs Other Countries
| Country | Size | Shape | Head height |
|---|---|---|---|
| Israel | 35×45mm | Rectangle | 60–80% |
| United Kingdom | 35×45mm | Rectangle | 64–76% |
| France / Germany | 35×45mm | Rectangle | 60–80% |
| United States | 51×51mm | Square | 50–69% |
| India | 35×35mm | Square | 60–80% |
| Canada | 50×70mm | Rectangle | 44–51% |
Israel uses the same physical dimensions as most of Europe and the UK. A compliant photo from any of these countries will match Israel's size — though background, expression, and glasses rules may still differ.
The US 2×2 inch photo (50.8×50.8mm) is fundamentally different. The aspect ratio mismatch causes automatic rejection at the immigration office.
Common Israeli Passport Photo Sizing Mistakes
One frequent error involves not accounting for the required margin around the face. The 60-80% head height rule doesn't mean your head should fill the entire frame edge-to-edge. Leave breathing room. The print shop or online service should center your face with adequate space above the head and below the chin.
Another pitfall: using outdated templates. Israeli passport photo requirements have remained consistent, but acceptance standards tighten periodically. What worked for someone last year might get rejected this year if their photo was already borderline compliant. Always verify current specifications before submitting.
A common trap: using templates or presets from other countries. The 35×45mm format is correct, but aspect ratio presets on phone apps (4:3, 16:9, 1:1) are all wrong — you need exactly 7:9.
Appearance Rules That Affect Israeli Photo Sizing
These rules interact directly with how you frame the photo:
- Glasses: Not permitted. Remove them before photographing — this prevents glare issues and ensures clear facial recognition.
- Expression: Neutral, mouth closed. No smiling. A smile changes the facial geometry that biometric systems use.
- Head coverings: Only permitted for religious reasons. If worn, the full face from forehead to chin must remain visible and within the 60-80% range.
Digital vs Print Israeli Passport Photo Submissions
If applying through the Israeli government's online portal, you'll upload a digital file. The system accepts JPEG files between 40KB and 7MB. Despite this range, aim for the middle ground — around 500KB to 1MB typically works best. Extremely small files lack sufficient detail; very large files may timeout during upload or fail compression checks.
For in-person applications at Population and Immigration Authority offices, bring printed photos. Request two copies minimum. One stays with your application, the other becomes part of your passport booklet. Having extras prevents delays if anything goes wrong during processing.
Where to Get a Correctly Sized Israeli Passport Photo
Population and Immigration Authority offices. Misrad HaPnim offices in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Haifa, and other cities often have on-site photo services or nearby studios. This is the most convenient option if you're applying in person.
Professional photography studios (סטודיו לצילום). Studios throughout Israel charge ₪80-120 for passport photos that meet all specifications. Studios near Misrad HaPnim offices handle passport photos daily and understand the requirements. The investment is worthwhile — rejected applications mean restarting the process and potentially rescheduling appointment slots.
Photo booths. Automated passport photo booths in shopping centres and near government buildings. Cost is typically ₪30-50.
DIY at home. Stand against a plain white wall in good natural light. Photograph from about 1.5 metres away, camera at eye level. Crop to 413×531 pixels at 300 DPI and save as JPEG. For the online portal, keep the file between 40KB and 7MB — aim for around 500KB to 1MB for best results.
Outside Israel: Specify "Israeli passport photo, 35×45mm, white background" to any photo studio. In the US, studios in areas with large Israeli communities (New York, Los Angeles, Miami) are often familiar with the format. Requirements are identical regardless of where you submit — consulates and embassies follow the same guidelines as domestic authorities.
Dual citizens: If you hold both Israeli and another passport, you need separate photos for each — even if both countries use 35×45mm. Background colour, glasses rules, and expression requirements may differ.
Israeli Passport Photo Size Rules for Babies and Children
Children's Israeli passport photos follow the same 35×45mm size and 60-80% head height requirements.
Infants (under 1 year): Lay the baby on a plain white sheet and photograph from directly above. Both eyes should be open. The Israeli authorities accept some flexibility on head positioning for infants — their features are proportionally different from adults — but the face must still be clearly visible, looking toward the camera. A professional studio experienced with infant passport photos is the most reliable option.
Children (1-5 years): Same rules as adults — neutral expression, eyes open, face centred. Studios near Misrad HaPnim offices are experienced with children's photos and have techniques for managing restless toddlers.
All children under 18: Israeli children's passports have shorter validity periods than adults. This means more frequent renewals and more frequent photos. Keep a compliant digital copy of your child's most recent photo — you'll need it again sooner.
Verifying Your Israeli Passport Photo Before Submission
Use our passport photo checker to validate your photo against Israeli requirements before submitting. A 30-second check saves weeks of processing delays.
For background colour rules, see our guide on Israeli passport photo background requirements. For glasses rules, see Israeli passport photo glasses guide. View all Israeli passport photo specifications on the Israel passport photo hub.
