Question 1

What are the photo requirements for a Mauritania passport?

Accepted Answer

Mauritania passport photos must be 35×45mm in colour, with a plain white background. The head height from chin to crown must be approximately 32–36mm within the frame. Your expression must be neutral with your mouth closed, eyes open, and looking directly at the camera. Glasses are not permitted. The photo must have been taken within the last 6 months. Requirements are set by the Direction Générale de la Sûreté Nationale (DGSN) under the Ministère de l'Intérieur, and conform to ICAO biometric standards.

Question 2

What background is required for a Mauritania passport photo?

Accepted Answer

The background must be plain white. There should be no patterns, objects, shadows, or other people visible in the background. The DGSN requires a clean, uniform white background to enable accurate biometric facial processing. ID Wizard automatically replaces your background with a compliant plain white background.

Question 3

Are glasses allowed in a Mauritania passport photo?

Accepted Answer

No. Glasses are not permitted in Mauritania passport photos. The DGSN follows ICAO biometric guidelines, which prohibit glasses because they can cause reflections and obstruct facial features required for biometric matching. Remove all glasses, including tinted glasses and sunglasses, before taking your passport photo.

Question 4

How recent must my Mauritania passport photo be?

Accepted Answer

Your passport photo must have been taken within the last 6 months and must clearly reflect your current appearance. The DGSN may reject a photo that does not accurately represent your present appearance. Using a photo older than 6 months may result in your application being delayed or rejected.

Question 5

Do Mauritanian passport holders need a Schengen visa to travel to Europe?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Mauritanian passport holders require a Schengen visa to travel to Schengen Area countries, including France, Germany, Spain, and most EU member states. Schengen visa applications submitted at European embassies or VFS Global centres require a compliant 35×45mm ICAO biometric photo — the same format required for the Mauritania passport. Mauritania is a member of the Arab League and the African Union. ID Wizard produces a 35×45mm photo suitable for both the Mauritania passport application and Schengen visa applications.

Question 6

Is religious headwear such as a hijab allowed in a Mauritania passport photo?

Accepted Answer

Religious headwear such as a hijab is permitted in Mauritania passport photos, provided the full face from chin to forehead is clearly visible in the photo. The DGSN follows ICAO biometric standards, which allow religious head coverings as long as they do not obscure any part of the face. The face must be fully unobstructed, evenly lit, and looking directly at the camera.

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