Philippine Passport Photo Requirements 2026

Your passport photo must meet strict DFA specifications for your ePassport application to be accepted. Here are the exact requirements for photos taken at embassies and consulates worldwide.

Official Photo Specifications

Specification	Requirement
Dimensions	4.5 cm x 3.5 cm (1.77 x 1.38 inches)
Background	Plain white — no patterns, shadows, or off-white tones
Recency	Taken within the last 6 months
Face coverage	Face must occupy 70-80% of the frame
Expression	Neutral expression, mouth closed, both eyes open
Head position	Facing directly forward, head straight (not tilted)
Glasses	Not allowed — remove all eyewear including clear lenses
Head covering	Not permitted unless for documented religious reasons
Print quality	High-resolution, printed on glossy or matte photo paper
Quantity needed	2 copies (some posts may require 3)

Acceptable vs Unacceptable Photos

Acceptable

Clear, sharp focus with proper lighting
Natural skin tone, no filters or retouching
Both ears visible (hair may cover ears if natural style)
Uniform white background with no shadows
Appropriate attire (collared shirt recommended)
Religious headwear with full face visible

Unacceptable

Sunglasses, tinted lenses, or any eyewear
Hats, caps, or non-religious head coverings
Smiling, open mouth, or exaggerated expressions
Coloured or patterned backgrounds
Blurry, pixelated, or poorly lit photos
Selfies or photos with visible arm/phone
Heavy makeup, filters, or digital alterations
Photos older than 6 months

Note: Most Philippine embassies and consulates have in-house photo capture facilities. Your biometric photo will be taken digitally during your appointment. The printed photos you bring serve as backup and for the application form. Check with your specific embassy whether printed photos are still required.

Where to Get Passport Photos

Professional Photo Services

Photo studios: Most professional studios know passport specifications — specify "Philippine passport photo, 4.5 x 3.5 cm, white background"
Pharmacy/convenience stores: Walgreens, Boots, and similar chains offer passport photo services in many countries
Embassy photo booths: Some Philippine embassies have photo booths on-site for a small fee

DIY Tips

Stand in front of a plain white wall with even lighting
Use natural daylight or two soft lights to eliminate shadows
Set camera at eye level, approximately 1.5 metres away
Print on high-quality glossy photo paper at a photo printing service
Use a ruler to verify the 4.5 x 3.5 cm dimensions before submitting

Special Cases

Infants and Young Children

Babies and toddlers must also meet photo requirements. The child should face the camera with eyes open and mouth closed. For infants, lay the child on a white sheet and photograph from above. No pacifiers, toys, or other people should be visible in the frame. An adult may support the child from behind if not visible in the photo.

Religious Head Coverings

Head coverings worn for religious reasons are permitted provided the full face is clearly visible from the bottom of the chin to the top of the forehead. Submit a signed declaration stating the head covering is worn daily for religious purposes. The covering must not cast shadows on the face.

Medical Conditions

If you have a medical condition that prevents you from meeting standard requirements (e.g., you cannot open both eyes), provide a medical certificate from a licensed physician explaining the condition.

Quick Checklist

4.5 x 3.5 cm size
White background
Taken within 6 months
Neutral expression
No glasses
No head covering (unless religious)
Glossy photo paper
2 copies minimum