BJ Benin passport 3.5x4.5 cm (35x45 mm) Photo Requirements Guide - Official Guidelines

Requirements

• Photo dimensions: must be exactly 35 × 45 mm (width × height) with a tolerance of ±2 mm and a 3 : 4 aspect ratio
• Head size: the distance from the top of the hair to the bottom of the chin must measure between 32 mm and 36 mm
• Eye-level placement: eyes must be positioned 21 mm–25 mm from the bottom edge of the photo, measured in a straight line
• Background: plain, light grey or pale blue (white preferred), uniform with no shadows, patterns or objects visible
• Facial expression: neutral expression with mouth closed, no smiling, no raised eyebrows, natural relaxed look
• Eye visibility: eyes fully open and clearly visible, no hair or accessories obstructing the eyes, gaze directed straight at the camera
• Lighting: even, diffuse lighting without shadows, glare or red-eye; correct exposure to reproduce natural skin tones
• Head orientation: head centered and upright, not tilted or turned, both edges of the face and ears visible
• Glasses: not allowed; if medically required, use thin frames, lenses free of glare/reflection, eyes clearly visible
• Head coverings: prohibited except for religious reasons; headgear must not cast shadows or obscure any facial features
• Clothing: wear everyday attire (no uniforms, camouflage, or overly bright colors); collar and shoulder line visible
• Print quality: high-resolution color print on matte or semi-matte photo paper, no borders, smudges, perforations or inscriptions
• Recentness: photo must be taken within the last six months to reflect current appearance
• Children’s photos: follow all adult rules; no pacifiers or toys; if support used, it must be fully concealed beneath clothing

Step-by-Step Process

Follow these steps to create a compliant Benin passport photo (35 × 45 mm):

• Photo size verification: measure using a ruler or template to ensure 35 × 45 mm overall with max ±2 mm tolerance
• Head positioning: crop so head height (chin to crown) is 29–34 mm and centered horizontally in the frame
• Facial expression setup: adopt a neutral expression with closed mouth, both eyes open, hair off face and no smile lines
• Background preparation: use a plain white or light gray background free of shadows, patterns or objects
• Lighting and color balance: apply even front lighting to avoid shadows, red-eye or glare on skin and glasses
• Glasses and accessories check: remove tinted lenses and headgear (unless religious necessity) ensuring eyes remain visible
• Photo quality and paper: print on high-resolution (≥300 dpi) photo paper using a quality printer; choose matte or glossy finish
• Final inspection and cropping: verify all specs, trim to exact size leaving no borders, then place in a clean clear sleeve for submission

Tips and Best Practices

Content about BJ Benin passport 3.5x4.5 cm (35x45 mm) Photo Requirements Guide - tips

Conclusion

Conclusion

By strictly adhering to Benin’s 35×45 mm passport photo requirements, applicants can ensure smooth processing and avoid costly delays.

• Photo Size: Must be exactly 35 mm wide × 45 mm high
• Head Proportion: Face height between 29 mm and 34 mm from chin to crown
• Composition: Full-face, centered, neutral expression, eyes open and level
• Background: Plain white or light gray, uniform lighting with no shadows or reflections
• Image Quality: Sharp, high-resolution color photo with natural skin tones, no glasses glare or headwear (except religious)
• Final Check: Measure prints with a ruler, preview digital uploads at 600 DPI, and use a professional service if unsure