Brazilian Passport Photo Requirements 2026 – Polícia Federal Rules

• Size: 35mm wide × 45mm tall. The ICAO standard adopted by Brazil for international travel documents. Note: some local contexts refer to passport photos as “5×7cm” or “3×4cm” — always use 35×45mm for the Passaporte Eletrônico.
• Face coverage: The face must occupy 70–80% of the total frame height. This corresponds to roughly 32–36mm of head height (chin to crown) within the 45mm frame.
• Background: Plain white, uniformly lit. No shadows, patterns, or gradients. The background must be distinct from the subject's skin tone.
• Expression: Neutral, relaxed. Mouth closed. Both eyes fully open, looking directly into the lens.
• Glasses: Not permitted. Brazil adopted ICAO biometric standards with the Passaporte Eletrônico in 2010, which includes the ban on glasses.
• Recency: Photo must have been taken within 6 months of the application date.
• Colour: Full colour photograph only. Black-and-white photos are not accepted for the ePassport.
• Print quality: Printed on glossy or semi-gloss photo paper at a minimum of 300 DPI. The photo must be sharp, well-lit, and free of defects.
• No digital retouching: Filters, skin smoothing, or any alteration to facial features or background are not permitted.

Brazil introduced its biometric ePassport — the Passaporte Eletrônico — in 2010. The document contains an RFID chip that stores the holder's biometric data, including a digital facial image, fingerprints, and personal data, in line with ICAO Doc 9303 standards. The chip enables automated border control at airports in Brazil and internationally.

Applications are processed by the Polícia Federal (PF), either at its own delegacias or at authorised agencies throughout Brazil. Appointments are required and can be booked through the official Polícia Federal website (pf.gov.br). Brazilian citizens abroad can apply at Brazilian embassies or consulates.

Standard adult passports are valid for 10 years. Children under 5 receive a 5-year passport. Children aged 5–17 receive passports valid until they turn 18, or for up to 5 years — whichever comes first. A new photo meeting all current requirements is required at every renewal.

Children of all ages — including newborn infants — must have their own passport with a compliant photo. The same ICAO requirements apply regardless of age:

• The child must be photographed alone — no parents, hands, or accessories in frame.
• Eyes must be fully open and looking toward the camera.
• A plain white background is required.
• Neutral expression — no smiling, no toys, no pacifiers visible.
• For newborns and very young infants: lay the baby on a white sheet or use a white blanket on a flat surface. Avoid direct flash; use soft natural light or diffused artificial light.