Swiss National Identity Card Photo Requirements

About Swiss National Identity Card

The Swiss national identity card is an official identification document issued to Swiss citizens for domestic use and travel within Europe. It serves as proof of Swiss citizenship and identity, and is valid for travel to EU/EFTA countries.

What is it used for?

• Primary identification within Switzerland
• Travel within EU/EFTA countries
• Age verification and proof of citizenship
• Opening bank accounts and financial services
• Employment verification and background checks
• Government service applications
• Access to public services and benefits
• Student enrollment and educational services

How to Obtain a Swiss Identity Card

Eligibility:

• Swiss citizens by birth, naturalization, or descent
• Must be able to prove Swiss citizenship
• Available as alternative to passport for European travel

Required Documents:

For First-Time Applicants:

1. Proof of Swiss Citizenship:
   • Swiss birth certificate, or
   • Certificate of Swiss citizenship, or
   • Valid Swiss passport
2. Identity Verification: Current photo identification
3. Identity Card Photos: 2 identical copies meeting Swiss specifications
4. Completed Application Form: Available online or at offices

For Renewals:

1. Current or expired Swiss identity card
2. Identity Card Photos: 2 identical copies
3. Completed Application Form
4. Additional documents (if personal details changed)

Application Process:

Step 1: Prepare Application

• Gather all required documents
• Obtain compliant identity card photographs
• Complete application form

Step 2: Submit Application

• Municipal Office: At local commune or city office
• Cantonal Office: At cantonal passport/ID offices
• Appointment: May be required in some locations

Step 3: Biometric Data Collection

• Provide fingerprints (for applicants 12 years and older)
• Digital photograph may be taken at office
• Signature capture for card production

Step 4: Pay Fees and Collect

• Adult identity card (10 years): CHF 65
• Child identity card (5 years): CHF 30
• Express service: Additional CHF 20
• Collection: Usually ready within 7-10 working days

Processing Times:

• Standard service: 7-10 working days
• Express service: 2-3 working days
• Replacement: Same timeframes apply
• Peak periods: May take longer during summer months

Photo Specifications

Key Requirements

• Size: 35 × 45 mm (passport size)
• Face Height: 32–36 mm (measured from chin to crown)
• Background: White or neutral, uniform
• Quality: High resolution (minimum 300 DPI), sharp focus, color only
• Recency: Taken within the last 6 months

Technical Specifications

• Head Position: Centered, facing directly forward
• Eye Level: Eyes positioned in upper half of photo
• Shoulders: Both shoulders visible and level
• Expression: Neutral, mouth closed, eyes open and clearly visible
• Lighting: Even lighting without shadows or glare

Swiss ID Card Standards

• Background: White preferred, light neutral colors acceptable
• Glasses: Prescription glasses allowed if no reflections
• Contact Lenses: Colored contacts not permitted
• Headwear: Only for religious reasons, face must be fully visible
• Expression: Neutral expression with mouth closed
• Eyes: Both eyes must be open and clearly visible
• Natural Appearance: No digital alterations or heavy makeup

Digital Requirements

• File Format: JPEG preferred for digital submission
• Resolution: Minimum 300 DPI
• Color: Full color only, no black and white
• File Size: Typically under 2MB
• Quality: High quality, no compression artifacts

Common Rejection Reasons

Photo Quality Issues

• Low resolution or pixelated images
• Blurry or out-of-focus photographs
• Over or under-exposed images
• Poor color reproduction
• Digital alterations or filters applied

Size and Dimension Problems

• Incorrect photo dimensions (not exactly 35×45mm)
• Face height outside 32-36mm range
• Improper cropping or framing
• Head positioned incorrectly in frame

Background Issues

• Colored or patterned backgrounds
• Shadows or uneven lighting on background
• Objects or people visible in background
• Non-uniform background color

Appearance Problems

• Eyes closed, squinting, or looking away
• Mouth open or smiling
• Hair covering eyes or face
• Heavy makeup altering natural appearance
• Reflections on glasses or skin

Technical Violations

• Photos older than 6 months
• Black and white or sepia-toned images
• Visible photo editing or retouching
• Multiple people in photograph

Tips for Perfect Swiss ID Card Photos

Professional Photography

• Use photographer experienced with Swiss ID requirements
• Ensure they understand official specifications
• Verify they can provide exact 35×45mm dimensions
• Confirm they use appropriate lighting and background

DIY Photography Guidelines

1. Lighting: Use natural daylight or professional lighting setup
2. Background: Pure white wall or professional backdrop
3. Camera: High-resolution camera positioned at eye level
4. Distance: Maintain proper distance for correct face size
5. Expression: Practice neutral, serious expression
6. Clothing: Wear dark-colored clothing for contrast

Quality Control

• Verify exact 35×45mm dimensions
• Check face height is within 32-36mm range
• Ensure photos are identical
• Confirm photos are recent (within 6 months)
• Print on high-quality photo paper

Special Considerations

For Children:

• Same photo requirements apply to all ages
• Parent or guardian must be present for application
• Child must be alone in photo
• Fingerprints not required for children under 12

For Elderly Applicants:

• May qualify for reduced fees in some cantons
• Assistance available at application offices
• Medical exemptions may apply for certain requirements

For People with Disabilities:

• Reasonable accommodations available
• Alternative photo arrangements may be possible
• Contact office in advance to discuss needs

Travel Considerations:

• Valid for travel within EU/EFTA countries only
• Passport required for travel outside Europe
• Check destination country requirements
• Some countries may not accept ID cards

Cantonal Differences

Application Locations:

Different cantons handle ID card applications differently:

• Some cantons: Municipal offices handle applications
• Other cantons: Centralized cantonal offices
• Urban areas: Multiple locations available
• Rural areas: May have limited office hours

Fees:

While federal guidelines exist, some cantonal variations may apply:

• Standard fees: CHF 65 (adult), CHF 30 (child)
• Express services: Additional CHF 20
• Replacement fees: Same as new application
• Senior discounts: Available in some cantons

Processing:

• Appointment systems: Vary by canton
• Online services: Available in some locations
• Collection methods: In-person pickup usually required
• Notification: SMS or email when ready

Comparison with Passport

Identity Card Advantages:

• Lower cost: CHF 65 vs CHF 140 for passport
• Sufficient for Europe: Valid for EU/EFTA travel
• Faster processing: Often quicker than passport
• Convenient size: Credit card format

Passport Advantages:

• Global travel: Valid worldwide
• Longer validity: 10 years for adults
• More acceptance: Universally recognized
• Visa applications: Required for most visa applications

Recommendation:

• European travel only: ID card sufficient
• Global travel: Passport recommended
• Dual option: Many Swiss citizens have both
• Cost consideration: ID card more economical for Europe-only travel

Need perfect photos for your Swiss identity card? Our AI-powered tool ensures your photos meet all official Swiss requirements for quick approval.