May 29, 2026 · Egypt
Egyptian Passport Photo Requirements 2026 – CAPMAS & Civil Status Rules
Egypt's biometric ePassport is issued by the Civil Status Organization (also known as CAPMAS — Central Agency for Public Mobilisation and Statistics) in coordination with the Ministry of Interior. This guide covers the official photo specifications, Egypt's ePassport history since 2008, the hijab and headscarf policy, and the national identity card (Bitaqa Wataniya) photo requirements.
Quick summary
35×45mm, white background, neutral expression, no glasses, both eyes fully open, taken within 6 months. Egyptian ePassport with biometric chip since 2008. Hijab and headscarf permitted if the full face is visible.
Core Photo Requirements
The following specifications apply to all Egyptian passport applications and renewals at Civil Status offices and at Egyptian embassies and consulates abroad.
- Size: 35mm wide × 45mm tall (ICAO standard).
- Background: Plain white. No shadows, patterns, or colour gradients. The background must be uniformly white.
- Expression: Neutral. Mouth closed. Both eyes fully open and directed at the camera.
- Glasses: Not permitted. CAPMAS follows the ICAO standard prohibiting all eyewear in biometric passport photos.
- Recency: Taken within 6 months of the application date.
- Colour: Full colour only. Black-and-white photos are not accepted.
- Head coverings: Hijab and headscarves permitted for religious reasons, provided the full face from forehead to chin is completely visible.
- Retouching: No digital filters or alterations to your appearance.
Hijab and Headscarf Policy
Egyptian passport photos permit hijab or headscarf provided the face is fully visible from forehead to chin. No part of the covering may shadow the face, cover the forehead, or obscure the cheeks or chin. The background must remain uniformly white behind and around the face. This policy is consistent with ICAO Doc 9303 religious head covering guidance.
Egyptian ePassport: Biometric Chip Since 2008
Egypt introduced its biometric ePassport in 2008. The document contains a contactless RFID chip storing the holder's facial biometric data and fingerprints in line with ICAO Doc 9303 standards. The chip allows the passport to be verified at automated e-gates in countries that support ICAO biometric readers, including Schengen area airports and other major international transit hubs.
Passport applications are submitted at Civil Status offices in Egypt or at Egyptian embassies and consulates abroad. In many cases, the biometric data — including the facial photograph — is captured on-site during the appointment using a controlled biometric camera. Confirm the exact procedure with your local Civil Status office or Egyptian diplomatic mission before your appointment.
Bitaqa Wataniya (Egyptian National ID) Photo Requirements
The Egyptian national identity card — known as the Bitaqa Wataniya (بطاقة الرقم القومي) — is issued to all Egyptian citizens aged 16 and above. The Bitaqa Wataniya uses the same ICAO photo specifications as the passport: 35×45mm, white background, neutral expression, no glasses.
However, the biometric photo for the national ID is typically captured on-site at Civil Status offices using a controlled biometric camera. You cannot substitute a printed 35×45mm photo for national ID enrolment. The passport photo requirements in this guide apply specifically to the Egyptian passport.
The same hijab and headscarf policy applies to the Bitaqa Wataniya: head coverings are permitted provided the full face is completely visible.
Egyptian Passport and National ID Comparison
| Document | Photo size | Background | Glasses | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Egyptian ePassport | 35×45mm | White | No | Biometric chip since 2008 |
| Bitaqa Wataniya (National ID) | 35×45mm (ICAO) | White | No | Capture at Civil Status offices |
Always verify current requirements with the Civil Status Organization or your nearest Egyptian Embassy or Consulate. Requirements may be updated without notice.
Common Rejection Reasons for Egyptian Passport Photos
Glasses or eyewear visible
Remove all glasses before the photo. Prescription frames are not exempt from the ICAO requirement.
Background not plain white
Use a uniformly white background. Avoid off-white, cream, light grey, or coloured backgrounds.
Headscarf covering part of the face
Ensure the headscarf does not touch the forehead, cheeks, or chin. The full face must be completely visible.
Shadow on the face or background
Stand at least 1 metre from the background wall. Use even front lighting to eliminate all shadows.
Photo older than 6 months
Retake the photo within 6 months of your application or renewal date.
Digital filters or beauty retouching applied
Submit the photo without any digital filters, skin smoothing, or appearance alterations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size is an Egyptian passport photo?
Egyptian passport photos must be 35mm wide × 45mm tall (ICAO standard). The face must be centred, fully visible from chin to crown, with a neutral expression and both eyes fully open.
Can I wear glasses in an Egyptian passport photo?
No. The Civil Status Organization (CAPMAS) requires passport photos without glasses, following the ICAO biometric standard. Remove all eyewear — including prescription glasses — before the photo is taken.
Can women wear a hijab in an Egyptian passport photo?
Yes. Egyptian passport photos permit hijab or headscarf provided the face is fully visible from forehead to chin. No part of the headscarf may shadow or cover the face. The background must remain uniformly white.
When did Egypt introduce the ePassport?
Egypt introduced its biometric ePassport in 2008. The document contains a contactless chip storing the holder's facial biometric data and fingerprints in line with ICAO Doc 9303.
What are the photo requirements for the Egyptian Bitaqa Wataniya?
The Bitaqa Wataniya uses the same ICAO specs as the passport: 35×45mm, white background, no glasses. Hijab is permitted if the full face is visible. Biometric enrolment is typically done on-site at Civil Status offices.
Can Egyptian citizens abroad apply for a passport?
Yes. Egyptian citizens abroad can apply for or renew their passport at the nearest Egyptian Embassy or Consulate. Photo requirements are the same as in Egypt. Confirm whether biometric data is captured on-site or a printed photo is required.
Always verify current requirements with the official authority — Civil Status Organization (Egypt Ministry of Interior) or your nearest Egyptian Embassy or Consulate. Requirements may be updated without notice.
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