Israeli Passport Photo Requirements

Overview

Israeli passports require specific 35×45 mm photos that meet Population and Immigration Authority (PIBA) standards. Whether applying for your first passport, renewal, or replacement, proper photos are essential for approval.

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 Passport Types and Validity

Regular Passport (דרכון רגיל)

• Adults: 10-year validity
• Minors (under 18): 5-year validity
• Fee: ₪185 (adults), ₪120 (minors)

Diplomatic Passport (דרכון דיפלומטי)

• Government officials: Variable validity
• Diplomatic personnel: Special issuance
• Fee: No fee for official use

Service Passport (דרכון שירות)

• Official travel: Government employees
• Validity: Based on assignment
• Fee: No fee for official use

Application Process

Required Documents

• Teudat Zehut: Israeli ID card and slip
• Photos: Two identical 35×45 mm photos
• Previous passport: If renewing
• Birth certificate: For first-time applicants
• Parental consent: For minors under 18

Application Locations (PIBA Offices)

• Jerusalem: Givat Shaul, East Jerusalem
• Tel Aviv: Central office, Ramat Gan
• Haifa: Hadar, Kiryat Ata
• Beer Sheva: Central office
• Netanya: Regional office

Processing Times

• Regular processing: 7-14 business days
• Express service: 3-5 business days (additional fee)
• Same-day service: Available in urgent cases
• Peak seasons: Up to 21 days (summer, holidays)

Photo Guidelines and Standards

Acceptable Requirements

• Natural appearance: No heavy makeup or digital alterations
• Prescription glasses: Clear lenses, no reflections
• Religious head coverings: Permitted if worn for religious reasons
• Medical devices: Hearing aids, medical patches visible

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

• Passport photo specialists: Found near PIBA offices
• Shopping centers: Photo services in major malls
• Camera shops: Professional photography services
• Cost: ₪25-50 for passport photos

Instant Photo Services

• Photo booths: Available in malls and train stations
• Convenience stores: Some locations offer photo printing
• Online services: Upload and print services
• Cost: ₪15-35 for instant photos

Recommended Locations by City

Jerusalem

• Givat Shaul: Multiple photo shops near PIBA office
• City Center: Jaffa Street area photo services
• Malha Mall: Photo centers in shopping complex

Tel Aviv

• Ramat Gan: Near PIBA office, multiple options
• Dizengoff Center: Photo services in mall
• Central Bus Station: Quick photo services

Haifa

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

Beer Sheva

• City Center: Near PIBA office
• Big Fashion Mall: Photo services
• Old City: Traditional photo studios

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 Infants

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

For Military Personnel

• Service members: May need military approval
• Officers: Special documentation required
• Reserves: Standard civilian process
• Security clearance: Additional verification may be needed

For New Immigrants (Olim)

• Temporary documents: May use temporary ID
• Hebrew names: Name changes during immigration process
• Consular services: Available at Israeli consulates abroad
• Integration benefits: Reduced fees for new immigrants

Fees and Payment (2024)

Passport Fees

• Adult regular (10-year): ₪185
• Minor regular (5-year): ₪120
• Express service: Additional ₪100
• Same-day service: Additional ₪200

Photo Costs

• Professional studio: ₪25-50
• Photo booth: ₪15-35
• Online printing: ₪20-40
• Additional copies: ₪5-15 each

Payment Methods

• Cash: Accepted at all PIBA offices
• Credit cards: Most locations accept cards
• Bank transfer: Online applications
• Checks: Some locations accept personal checks

Israeli Administrative Context

Government Agencies

• PIBA: Population and Immigration Authority
• Ministry of Interior: Oversees PIBA operations
• Foreign Ministry: Consular services abroad
• Security services: Background checks for passports

Digital Services

• Gov.il: Government service portal
• PIBA online: Appointment booking and status tracking
• Digital signatures: Electronic document submission
• Mobile apps: Government service applications

Language Support

• Hebrew: Primary language for all services
• Arabic: Available at most offices
• English: Limited availability at major offices
• Russian: Available in areas with large Russian-speaking populations

Tips for Successful Application

Before Taking Photos

• Check requirements: Review latest PIBA guidelines
• Choose location: Find experienced photo service
• Prepare appearance: Natural makeup, appropriate clothing
• Timing: Allow time for retakes if needed

Photo Session

• Follow instructions: Listen to photographer’s guidance
• Check quality: Review photos before finalizing
• Get multiple copies: Order extra copies for future use
• Digital backup: Request digital copies if available

Application Day

• Arrive early: PIBA offices can be busy
• Bring everything: All required documents and photos
• Check photos: Ensure photos meet current standards
• Be patient: Processing may take time during busy periods

After Submission

• Track status: Use PIBA online tracking system
• Respond promptly: Answer any PIBA requests quickly
• Plan travel: Don’t book flights until passport received
• Keep receipts: Maintain all application documentation

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