European Union (EU) Passport (35x45 mm) Photo Size Requirements and Online Tool

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Passport picture size Width: 35 mm, Height: 45 mm
Resolution (DPI) 600
Background color White
Printable photo Yes
Digital photo for online submission Yes
Digital photo size Width: 826 pixels , Height: 1062 pixels
Photo Paper type matte


Do not worry about the photo size requirements. Our online tool makes correct photos, ensuring the photo size and head size are correct. Background will be enhanced as well.

The European Union passports issued by its 27 member states share a common design and passport photo size specification.
A passport photo that meets these requirements ensures a smooth application process and avoids any delays or rejections. In order to obtain a European Union passport photo that meets the necessary standards, please consider the following guidelines:

Size:

The size of the passport photo should be 35x45mm. This is the standard size accepted by all EU member states.

Background:

The background of the photo should be plain and light-colored, preferably white or off-white. Avoid patterns, shadows, or any other distracting elements in the background.

Lighting:

The photo should be well-lit, with no harsh shadows on the face or behind the subject. Ensure that your face is evenly lit and clearly visible.

Pose and Expression:

The subject should maintain a neutral facial expression, with both eyes open and looking directly at the camera. Keep your mouth closed and avoid smiling or frowning.

Head Position:

The subject's head should be centered within the frame, facing forward. The face should occupy approximately 70-80% of the photo's height.

Framing:

The photo should feature a close-up of the subject's face, from the top of the head to the shoulders. The subject's face should be centered within the frame, with equal spacing around the head.

Clothing:

Avoid wearing hats, head coverings, or sunglasses that obscure your facial features. Religious head coverings are allowed, as long as they do not cover the face.

Resolution and Quality:

The photo should be of high quality, with sharp focus and good contrast. It should be printed on high-quality photo paper, with no ink smudges or damage.

Recentness:

The photo should be taken within the last six months, ensuring that it accurately represents your current appearance.

Digital Requirements:

Some EU member states accept digital passport photos. If you choose to submit a digital photo, ensure that it meets the specific requirements of the country you are applying to.


If you want to make passport/visa photos for other countries, click the button below.

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How to make European Union (EU) Passport photo online


Step 1: Take a picture with a digital camera or a smartphone

Make sure someone takes your passport photo for you. Selfies are not accepted. Make use of your tripod if you have one. By using a tripod, you will be able to keep the camera level and steady. Ideally, the person should be around 1 meter away from the camera.

Pspport photo good examples

 

Step 2: Choose a venue with appropriate lighting

Face a bright window or the door when taking a photo. In this way, shadows can be avoided on the face and in the background. It is essential that the face is evenly lit. Ensure that the face is free of shadows and glares.

Note: You do not need to worry about the background, since our online passport photo generator will automatically do it for you.

passport photo lighting and shadows

 

Step 3: Dress appropriately for your passport photo

Uniforms should not be worn. Put on regular street clothes for your photo.

Eyeglasses should not be worn. You should remove any sunglasses, tinted glasses, or glasses that you wear if you are taking a passport photo.

Ensure that your face is fully visible. Make sure your hair doesn't cover your face or obscure your eyes. In the case of very long bangs covering your eyebrows, pin them back with bobby pins. Although it's better to show your ears as well, that won't stop your photo from being accepted.

Passport photos don't allow hats unless they're religious headgear such as a headscarf or yarmulke.

passport photo attire, hats and hair

passport photo face obstruction


Step 4: Pose for a passport photo

Face the camera straight on and look straight at it. Avoid tilting or rotating the head.

It is important that the shoulders are visible, and there should be enough space around the head to crop the picture.

Make sure the camera is at the same level as the head.

passport photo pose

 

Step 5: Maintain neutral facial expressions

It's okay to smile in your passport photo, but the government prefers you to have a neutral facial expression.

Under the new international passport rules, it is usually not acceptable to smile or have your mouth open.

acceptable passport photo

Unacceptable passport photo

 

Good and bad examples of passport photos

Example of passport photos

Printed passport photos


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