What the Portuguese ID card is
The Portuguese ID card, the Cartão de Cidadão, is the main identity document for citizens of Portugal. It is used for official transactions, access to public services, healthcare and social security, and as a travel document inside the European Union and the Schengen Area. The card is the standard credit-card format and has a microchip that stores biometric data, including a digital photograph and fingerprints, so the photo has to be clear and correct.
Portugal ID card photo size explained
The Portugal ID card photo is a square of 32×32 mm, or 3.2×3.2 cm. The head takes about 71% of the photo height, roughly 23 mm from chin to crown, with a small gap of about 8% between the top of the hair and the top edge. The background is plain light grey. Print the photo at 600 DPI so it stays sharp at this scale. A photo cut from a larger passport print or a phone crop rarely keeps these proportions, which is why our tool sets the crop and head position for you.
How to apply for the Cartão de Cidadão
Citizens living in the country book an appointment at an office of the Instituto dos Registos e do Notariado (IRN). Bring proof of identity, such as a birth certificate or your previous card, and proof of residence. At the appointment you fill in the application form, staff collect your biometric data, including the photograph and fingerprints, and you pay the fee, which depends on your age and the type of service. The new card is sent to your registered address, or you can pick it up in person.
Renewal for citizens abroad
Citizens who live outside Portugal renew their identity document through the consular network. The Portal do Cidadão renewal page for citizens resident abroad describes this service. Some applications ask for recent photographs, so check the list of documents for your consulate and prepare a 32×32 mm photo before your visit.
Portuguese ID card photo checklist
- Correct photo size: a 32×32 mm square.
- Head about 71% of the photo height, centred, with a small gap above the hair.
- Plain light grey background, no shadows or patterns.
- Neutral expression, mouth closed, both eyes open and looking at the camera.
- Glasses and hat off, with your full face inside the frame.
- Sharp photo printed at 600 DPI, with no filters.
Children and lost cards
Children can also hold a Cartão de Cidadão; the application needs parental consent and documents. If your Portuguese ID card is lost or stolen, report it to the authorities right away and apply for a replacement card. Have a new photo ready that meets the same rules.
Other Portugal documents
Need a photo for another Portuguese document? For travel, see our Portugal passport photo page; if you are not a citizen and need to enter the country, see the Portugal visa photo page.
