Taiwan passport and ID photo requirements
Taiwan is one of the few places where two different photo shapes are in circulation: a portrait 35×45 mm photo for passports and a landscape 45×35 mm photo for the new-style identity card. Cropping to the wrong orientation is a common reason for a rejected application.
Crop to this size
Opens the cropper with 35 × 45 mm already selected.
At a glance
| Photo size | 35 × 45 mm |
|---|---|
| Photo size in inches | 1⅜ × 1¾ in |
| Pixels at 300 ppi | 413 × 531 px |
| Orientation | Portrait for passports, landscape 45×35 mm for the new ID card |
| Head height | 32–36 mm from chin to crown (the ID card uses 34–36 mm) |
| Background | Plain white, with no shadows behind the head |
The 2021-era ID card photo is the same frame rotated: 45 mm wide by 35 mm high.
What the photo must show
- Photo age. Taken within the last 6 months.
- Expression. Neutral expression, mouth closed, both eyes open.
- Glasses. Not allowed for the new ID card photo; for passports, reflections and heavy frames are refused.
- Headwear. Not allowed except for religious reasons; the face must be fully visible from chin to forehead.
- Ears. Both ears should be visible — tuck long hair behind them.
- Editing. No filters, no skin smoothing and no background replacement.
Common reasons photos get rejected
- Cropping a passport photo to the ID-card orientation, or the reverse.
- A background that photographs grey, or a shadow cast by the person themselves.
- A fringe or hair covering the eyebrows or ears.
- A photo that has been retouched to look younger.
Official sources
- Bureau of Consular Affairs — passport photosPassport applications and the official photo specification.
- Department of Household RegistrationThe national ID card, including the 45×35 mm photo rule.
Reviewed October 2026. Requirements change — always confirm with the official source above before you apply.