Israeli National ID Card (Teudat Zehut) Photo Requirements

Overview

The Israeli National ID Card (Teudat Zehut) is the primary identification document for all Israeli citizens and residents. PIBA requires specific 35×45 mm photos for new issuance, renewals, and updates.

Photo Specifications

Exact Dimensions

• Size: 35 × 45 mm (width × height)
• Face height: 32–36 mm (from chin to top of head)
• Face-to-photo ratio: 70-80% of total height
• Position: Centered horizontally and vertically

Technical Requirements

• Resolution: Minimum 300 DPI for printing
• Digital format: High-quality JPEG
• File size: 100 KB to 2 MB
• Color: Full color required
• Background: Plain white or very light gray
• Quality: Sharp, clear, and professionally taken

Facial Requirements

• Expression: Neutral, serious expression
• Eyes: Open, looking directly at camera
• Mouth: Closed, no smiling
• Head position: Straight, facing forward
• Recent: Taken within last 6 months

Israeli ID Card Types and Uses

Regular Teudat Zehut

• Citizens: All Israeli citizens from birth
• Validity: No expiration (updated periodically)
• Uses: Banking, healthcare, employment, voting
• Fee: Free for citizens

Temporary ID (Teudat Zehut Zamanit)

• New immigrants: During absorption process
• Validity: 1-2 years
• Conversion: To regular ID after requirements met
• Fee: Free for new immigrants

Resident ID

• Permanent residents: Non-citizens with residency
• Validity: Tied to residency status
• Uses: Similar to citizen ID with some limitations
• Fee: Varies by status

Application Process

Required Documents

• Birth certificate: For first-time issuance
• Previous ID: If updating or renewing
• Immigration documents: For new immigrants
• Photos: Two identical 35×45 mm photos
• Parental consent: For minors under 18

Application Locations (PIBA Offices)

• Jerusalem: Givat Shaul, East Jerusalem, City Center
• Tel Aviv: Ramat Gan, Central Tel Aviv, Jaffa
• Haifa: Hadar, Kiryat Ata, Carmel
• Beer Sheva: Central office, Ramot
• Netanya: Central office

Processing Times

• New issuance: 14-21 business days
• Updates: 7-14 business days
• Urgent cases: 3-5 business days (additional fee)
• Peak periods: Up to 30 days

Photo Guidelines and Standards

Acceptable Requirements

• Natural appearance: Minimal makeup, natural look
• Prescription glasses: Clear lenses, no reflections
• Religious head coverings: Permitted for religious reasons
• Medical devices: Hearing aids, medical patches

Prohibited Elements

• Facial expressions: Smiling, frowning, or unusual expressions
• Sunglasses: Any tinted or dark glasses
• Hats or caps: Except religious head coverings
• Heavy makeup: Dramatic appearance changes
• Digital editing: Filters, beauty apps, retouching

Background Requirements

• Color: Plain white or very light gray
• Uniformity: No patterns, textures, or shadows
• Lighting: Even, professional lighting
• Contrast: Clear distinction from subject

Where to Get Photos in Israel

Professional Photo Studios

• ID photo specialists: Found near PIBA offices
• Shopping centers: Photo services in major malls
• Camera shops: Professional photography services
• Cost: ₪20-45 for ID photos

Instant Photo Services

• Photo booths: Available in malls and government buildings
• Convenience stores: Some locations offer photo printing
• Online services: Upload and print services
• Cost: ₪12-30 for instant photos

Recommended Locations by City

Jerusalem

• Givat Shaul: Multiple photo shops near PIBA office
• Jaffa Street: City center photo services
• Malha Mall: Photo centers in shopping area
• Machane Yehuda: Traditional photo studios

Tel Aviv

• Ramat Gan: Near PIBA office, multiple options
• Dizengoff Center: Photo services in mall
• Carmel Market: Traditional photo shops
• Azrieli Center: Modern photo services

Haifa

• Hadar: Near PIBA office photo shops
• Carmel Center: Professional studios
• Grand Canyon Mall: Photo centers
• German Colony: Local photo services

Beer Sheva

• City Center: Near PIBA office
• Big Fashion Mall: Photo services
• Old City: Traditional photo studios
• University area: Student-oriented services

Common Rejection Reasons

Technical Issues

• Wrong size: Not exactly 35×45 mm
• Poor quality: Blurry, pixelated, or low resolution
• Incorrect background: Not white or has patterns
• Bad lighting: Shadows, glare, or uneven lighting

Facial Issues

• Expression: Smiling, frowning, or inappropriate expressions
• Eyes: Closed eyes, looking away, red-eye effect
• Hair: Covering face, eyes, or creating shadows
• Accessories: Inappropriate glasses or jewelry

Special Considerations

For Children and Minors

• Infants: Eyes must be open, neutral expression
• Toddlers: Parent may assist but not appear in photo
• School age: Same requirements as adults
• Parental presence: Required for minors under 18

For Military Personnel

• Active duty: Standard civilian ID process
• Officers: May need additional documentation
• Security personnel: Enhanced background checks
• Reserves: Standard process during civilian time

For New Immigrants (Olim Hadashim)

• Temporary status: May use temporary documents
• Hebrew names: Name adoption during process
• Integration services: Assistance available
• Reduced fees: Benefits for new immigrants

For Religious Communities

• Head coverings: Permitted for religious reasons
• Modesty requirements: Accommodated within guidelines
• Sabbath observance: Special appointment scheduling
• Community liaisons: Available at some offices

Fees and Payment (2024)

ID Card Fees

• New issuance: Free for citizens
• Updates: ₪30-50 depending on changes
• Replacement: ₪50-80 for lost/damaged cards
• Express service: Additional ₪75-150

Photo Costs

• Professional studio: ₪20-45
• Photo booth: ₪12-30
• Online printing: ₪15-35
• Additional copies: ₪3-10 each

Payment Methods

• Cash: Accepted at all PIBA offices
• Credit cards: Most locations accept cards
• Debit cards: Widely accepted
• Bank transfer: For online services

Israeli Administrative Context

Government Integration

• Healthcare: Kupat Holim registration
• Banking: Account opening requirements
• Employment: Work authorization verification
• Education: School enrollment
• Military service: Draft registration

Digital Services

• Gov.il portal: Online government services
• Digital ID: Electronic identification services
• Mobile apps: Government service applications
• Biometric data: Fingerprint and facial recognition

Security Features

• Biometric chip: Modern IDs include biometric data
• Security printing: Anti-counterfeiting measures
• Digital verification: Online verification systems
• Privacy protection: Data protection protocols

Tips for Successful Application

Preparation

• Document gathering: Collect all required documents
• Photo preparation: Ensure compliance before appointment
• Appointment booking: Schedule during less busy periods
• Language support: Arrange translation if needed

At the PIBA Office

• Arrive early: Allow time for processing
• Bring originals: All documents in original form
• Photo verification: Ensure photos meet standards
• Biometric capture: Cooperate with fingerprint/photo capture

After Application

• Status tracking: Monitor application progress
• Collection: Arrange for ID pickup or delivery
• Verification: Check all details on received ID
• Safekeeping: Store ID securely and make copies

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