What the Swiss ID card is used for
The Swiss ID card (Identitätskarte, carte d'identité, carta d'identità) is the national identity document for Swiss citizens. It proves your identity and Swiss nationality at home and abroad, it is accepted for travel within the Schengen Area instead of a passport, and banks or offices often ask for it when you open an account or sign a contract. The Federal Office of Police (fedpol) and the ch.ch portal describe the card and how to order it. Because an adult card carries your photo for up to ten years, it deserves a few minutes of care.
Swiss ID card photo size explained
The photo for the card is a portrait of 35×45 mm, which is 3.5×4.5 cm. Inside that frame the head takes up most of the height: about 34.5 mm from the chin to the top of the head, with roughly 3 mm of free space between the top of the hair and the upper edge. A print at 600 DPI keeps fine details sharp, which matters because the image is reproduced on a small card. If the head in the photo is too small or too large, the photo fails the size check even when everything else is right.
Background, light and expression
Use a plain, evenly lit light grey background with no shadows, patterns or objects behind you. Light from the front avoids dark patches on one side of the face. Look straight into the camera with a neutral expression, mouth closed and both eyes open. Hair should not cover the eyes, and the face must be fully visible from the forehead to the chin. Use a colour photo without filters, beauty effects or heavy editing, as is standard for an identity document photo.
How to order a Swiss ID card
Only Swiss citizens can apply. You apply in person at your municipality or at the cantonal office, depending on where you live, and the fee is set by the canton. Bring the completed application, proof of identity such as your previous card or passport, and, where your office asks for one, a recent passport-style photo that meets the photo requirements. At the appointment you may also need to give biometric data, such as fingerprints and a photo. Once your card is ready you are notified and collect it in person. Adults receive a card valid for 10 years, minors one valid for 5 years.
Renewals, children and lost cards
You can renew the card before it expires; the steps are the same as for a first application, and you need a new photo that shows how you look today. Children can also have their own card; parental consent is required and the office may ask for additional documents. If your card is lost or stolen, report it to the local police and apply for a replacement. If you also need a passport, see our Switzerland passport photo page for its own photo requirements.
Swiss ID card photo checklist
- Correct size: 35×45 mm, head about 34.5 mm high.
- Plain light grey background with no shadows.
- Neutral expression, mouth closed, both eyes open.
- Head straight and centred, face fully visible.
- No glasses glare, hats or hair covering the eyes.
- Sharp, recent colour photo with no filters.
