How should a Portugal visa photo look?
Portugal uses the 35×45 mm Schengen format with head 32-36 mm and a plain white backdrop with no shadows. Both Cartão de Cidadão and passport photos are typically captured live at the Instituto dos Registos e do Notariado (IRN) counter during biometric enrolment. The new EU 1157/2019-compliant Citizen Card launched on 11 June 2024. SEF was dissolved in October 2023; the foreigner workflow now runs through AIMA.
The bodies that set the spec
The standard is published by the IRN; foreigner workflow is handled by AIMA. The photo must be within six months of the capture date. Glasses are discouraged; if worn, no glare on the lenses and the frame must not cross the eyes.
Workflow after the shoot
For fallback prints or abroad submissions, open the frame in PhotoID Studio and pick the Portugal preset; the app aligns the face, cleans the backdrop to pure white and exports 35×45 mm at 300 DPI. The same frame is reusable for a Schengen visa application.
Capture setup and direction
For abroad/fallback work, seat the customer 1.5-2 m in front of a white backdrop with shoulders parallel to the camera. Camera on a tripod, lens at eye level. Standard setup: a 50-85 mm portrait lens, f/8, a softbox at 45° with a reflector opposite. Cue: "chin slightly back, mouth closed, eyes fully open, neutral expression"; glasses are discouraged.
Where the IRN and AIMA send people back
• A backdrop other than white (cream, grey). • A frame older than six months from the capture date. • Glasses glare; frame cutting across the eyes. • A smile, visible teeth, an open mouth. • Hair covering the eyes. • Head too small; the ICAO ratio is missed. • A print outside the 35×45 mm spec.
IRN fallback plus AIMA pipeline
Even though the Cartão de Cidadão is captured at the IRN counter, Schengen visas and AIMA renewals build steady demand in Portuguese studios. The PhotoID Studio Portugal preset locks the 35×45 mm white frame and switching to a visa from the same shot is one click.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a studio print for the Cartão de Cidadão?
No. The photo is captured at the IRN counter during biometric enrolment; a brought-in print serves as fallback.
Does SEF still handle foreigners?
No. SEF was dissolved in October 2023; foreigner residence and renewal now run through AIMA.
When did the new Citizen Card launch?
The EU 1157/2019-compliant card launched on 11 June 2024; the same 35×45 mm white-backdrop spec applies.
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