How should a Costa Rica visa photo look?
The standard photo size for the Costa Rican cédula de identidad (national ID card) and passport is 35×45 mm. A plain white background is required and photos must comply with ICAO biometric standards. Both documents are issued by separate authorities but share identical photo requirements.
Issuing authorities: TSE and Migración
The Tribunal Supremo de Elecciones (TSE) manages cédula de identidad applications. Passport applications are handled by the Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería. Both institutions require ICAO-compliant biometric photos.
Preparing your photo with PhotoID Studio
PhotoID Studio automatically crops and resizes your uploaded photo to the 35×45 mm Costa Rican specification. After face detection verifies head position, the app produces a print-ready or digital JPEG. You can print the result at any photo shop or on your own printer.
Tips for a compliant photo
Take the photo in front of a plain white wall under natural light. Face the camera directly and keep a neutral expression. Avoid using flash. Remove your glasses and ensure your hair does not cover your face.
Common rejection reasons
• Non-white background or shadows on the background. • Glasses, hat, or accessories (unless required for religious reasons). • Hair or jewellery partially covering the face. • Blurry, overexposed, or low-resolution image. • Photo taken more than 6 months before the application date.
Photo cost and the PhotoID Studio advantage
Studio biometric photo prices in Costa Rica typically range from CRC 1,500 to CRC 4,000. A single PhotoID Studio annual subscription lets you prepare compliant photos for both the cédula and the passport without visiting a studio.
Frequently asked questions
Can the same photo be used for both the cédula and the passport?
Yes. Both the TSE and Migración apply the same 35×45 mm ICAO standard, so a single compliant photo can be used for both applications.
Are glasses allowed in a Costa Rican passport photo?
No. Both the TSE and Migración reject photos with glasses, as they can cause reflection and identification issues.
How recent must the photo be?
Photos taken no more than 6 months before the application date are accepted.
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