May 29, 2026 · Morocco
Moroccan Passport Photo Requirements 2026 – DGSN Biometric Passport Rules
Morocco's Passeport Biométrique is issued by the Direction Générale de la Sûreté Nationale (DGSN). French and Arabic are both official languages of Morocco, and passport applications can be submitted at DGSN offices throughout the country. This guide covers the official photo specifications, the hijab and headscarf policy, CIN (Carte Nationale d'Identité) photo requirements, and guidance for Moroccan diaspora communities in France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany.
Quick summary
35×45mm, white background, neutral expression, no glasses, both eyes fully open, taken within 6 months. Moroccan Passeport Biométrique with ICAO chip since 2009. Hijab permitted if the full face is visible.
Core Photo Requirements
The following specifications apply to all Moroccan Passeport Biométrique applications and renewals at DGSN offices in Morocco and at Moroccan 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. DGSN 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
Moroccan passport photos permit hijab or headscarf provided the face is fully visible from forehead to chin. No part of the hijab may shadow or cover the forehead, cheeks, or chin. The background behind and around the face must remain uniformly white. This policy is consistent with ICAO Doc 9303 religious head covering guidance.
Morocco's Passeport Biométrique Since 2009
Morocco introduced its Passeport Biométrique (biometric passport) in 2009. The document contains a contactless RFID chip storing the holder's facial biometric data and fingerprints in line with ICAO Doc 9303. The chip enables verification at automated e-gates in countries that support ICAO biometric readers, including Schengen area airports.
Passport applications are submitted at DGSN offices across Morocco or at Moroccan embassies and consulates abroad. In many DGSN offices, biometric data — including the facial photograph — is captured on-site during the appointment. Confirm the exact procedure with your local DGSN office or Moroccan diplomatic mission before attending your appointment.
CIN (Carte Nationale d'Identité) Photo Requirements
The Moroccan national identity card — the Carte Nationale d'Identité (CIN) — is issued by the DGSN to Moroccan citizens aged 18 and above. The CIN uses the same ICAO photo specifications as the passport: 35×45mm, white background, neutral expression, no glasses.
The same hijab and headscarf policy applies to the CIN: head coverings are permitted provided the full face is completely visible. Biometric data for the CIN is captured on-site at DGSN offices, and you cannot substitute a printed 35×45mm photo for CIN enrolment. The passport photo requirements in this guide apply specifically to the Moroccan Passeport Biométrique.
Moroccan Diaspora: France, Belgium, Netherlands, Germany
Morocco has one of the largest diaspora communities in Europe, with significant populations in France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany. Moroccan citizens abroad can apply for or renew their passport at the nearest Moroccan Embassy or Consulate. Photo requirements are the same as in Morocco. Confirm whether biometric data is captured on-site or a printed photo is required at your local consulate.
Moroccan Passport and CIN Comparison
| Document | Photo size | Background | Glasses | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Passeport Biométrique | 35×45mm | White | No | ICAO chip; issued since 2009 |
| CIN (Carte Nationale d'Identité) | 35×45mm (ICAO) | White | No | Biometric capture at DGSN offices |
Always verify current requirements with the DGSN (dgsn.ma) or your nearest Moroccan Embassy or Consulate. Requirements may be updated without notice.
Common Rejection Reasons for Moroccan 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.
Hijab covering part of the face
Ensure the hijab 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 a Moroccan passport photo?
Moroccan 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 a Moroccan passport photo?
No. The DGSN 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 a Moroccan passport photo?
Yes. Moroccan passport photos permit hijab provided the face is fully visible from forehead to chin. No part of the hijab may shadow or cover the face. The background must remain uniformly white.
When did Morocco introduce the biometric passport?
Morocco introduced its Passeport Biométrique in 2009. The document contains a contactless chip storing the holder's facial biometric data and fingerprints in line with ICAO Doc 9303.
What are the CIN (Carte Nationale d'Identité) photo requirements?
The Moroccan CIN 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 done on-site at DGSN offices.
Can Moroccan citizens in the diaspora apply for a passport abroad?
Yes. Moroccan citizens in France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, and other countries can apply for or renew their passport at the nearest Moroccan Embassy or Consulate. Photo requirements are the same as in Morocco.
Always verify current requirements with the Direction Générale de la Sûreté Nationale (dgsn.ma) or your nearest Moroccan Embassy or Consulate. Requirements may be updated without notice.
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