How should a Chile visa photo look?
The standard photo size for the Chilean passport (pasaporte chileno) and national ID card (cédula de identidad) is 45×45 mm. The photo must have a plain white background and meet ICAO guidelines. Photos taken more than 6 months before the application date are not accepted. The cédula de identidad is also a biometric document and shares the same photo requirements.
Issuing authorities: SRCeI and Cancillería
National ID applications in Chile are handled by the Registro Civil e Identificación (SRCeI). Passport applications are processed through units of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Cancillería). SRCeI offices operate nationwide with an appointment system. Both documents collect biometric data at the time of application.
Preparing your photo with PhotoID Studio
PhotoID Studio automatically crops and resizes your photo to Chilean specifications after you upload it. The app detects your face, verifies head height and position, and then produces a print-ready or digital JPEG. You can print the result at any photo shop or on your home printer.
Tips for a compliant photo
Take the photo in front of a plain, well-lit white wall with your face directed straight at the camera. Keep at least 1 metre between the lens and your face. Wear a neutral expression with your mouth closed. Avoid flash; natural or diffused lighting is preferred.
Common rejection reasons
• Non-white background or shadows on the background. • Photo taken with glasses (SRCeI does not accept glasses). • Hair or accessories partially covering the face. • Overexposure, low resolution, or pixelated image. • Photo taken more than 6 months before the application date.
Photo cost and the PhotoID Studio advantage
A biometric photo at a studio in Chile typically costs between CLP 3,000 and CLP 8,000. With a single annual PhotoID Studio subscription you can prepare compliant photos for unlimited countries. This removes the need to visit a studio every time you renew a document for yourself or your family.
Frequently asked questions
Are glasses allowed in a Chilean passport photo?
No. The SRCeI does not accept photos with glasses for either passport or cédula de identidad applications. You must remove your glasses before taking the photo.
How recent must the photo be?
Chilean authorities accept photos taken no more than 6 months before the application date. Older photos may be rejected.
Can the same photo be used for both the cédula and the passport?
Yes. Both documents share the same 45×45 mm ICAO standard, so a single compliant photo can be used for both applications.
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