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Costa Rica Passport Photo Size & Requirements
Costa Rica passport photo requirements follow ICAO biometric standards but are enforced by Costa Rica passport authority. In this guide, you can confirm the exact 35×45 mm size, 413×531 pixel output at 300 DPI, the required white background, and the fastest way to prepare a compliant image before submitting your Costa Rica passport application. A key local rule to remember is: Costa Rica requires a 35×45 mm photo on photographic paper.
Use ImageGates to resize your image to exactly 35×45 mm (413×531 px) with a white background. This guide also covers where applicants usually submit their documents, which local rules cause the most rejections, and which related country pages to compare before you apply.
Official Costa Rica passport photo rules
- Costa Rica requires a 35×45 mm photo on photographic paper.
- The background must be uniformly white with no shadows, patterns, or texture visible behind the head.
- The photo must be no older than 6 months and accurately reflect your current appearance.
Common mistakes in Costa Rica passport photos
- Using the wrong size — even 1 mm off the official 35×45 mm spec triggers rejection in Costa Rica.
- Submitting a non-white background, or one with shadows from poor home lighting.
- Wearing glasses, hats, or accessories that obscure the face.
Passport vs visa photo differences in Costa Rica
The passport photo in Costa Rica is 35×45 mm, while the visa photo is 35×45 mm. The size is the same for both documents, but you should still verify the specific submission rules for the visa application. You can also compare the alternate document on the dedicated Costa Rica visa photo page.
Popular countries
United StatesCanadaUnited KingdomIndiaSchengen Zone
Related countries
Mexico (35×45 mm)United States (51×51 mm)Colombia (30×40 mm)
Frequently asked questions
Where do I apply for a passport in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica citizens apply at their local passport office or government service centre. Costa Rica citizens abroad apply at the nearest Costa Rica embassy or consulate. Booking ahead online is usually required.
Is white background required in Costa Rica passport photos?
Costa Rica requires a white background. It must be pure white — off-white or cream tones are commonly rejected.
What is the official passport photo size for Costa Rica?
The official Costa Rica passport photo size is 35×45 mm, which equals 413×531 pixels at 300 DPI.
What background is required for a Costa Rica passport photo?
Costa Rica passport photos require a white background with even lighting, no patterns, and no visible shadows.