Belgian Child Passport Photo Requirements and Size
Preparing a passport photo for a baby or child in Belgium requires careful attention to official rules. This guide explains the exact measurements, lighting requirements, and submission steps you need to follow.
Official Size and Head Measurements
The official size for a Belgian child passport photo is 35×45 mm, or about 1.38×1.77 inches[1][2]. The head must measure 31–36 mm from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head[1][2]. A photo that does not meet the official requirements may be refused[1].
You can use the tool above to crop your image to these dimensions. Check that the head measures 31–36 mm from chin to top of head.
Background and Lighting Requirements
The background must be uniform and light. Belgian guidance lists light grey, light yellow, light blue or white, without shadows or gradation[1][2].
To get good lighting without professional studio gear, place the child near a large window to capture soft, even daylight. Ask someone else to hold the camera or phone steady while you position the child. Keep the camera lens at the child's eye level to avoid awkward angles and distortion.
Facial Expression, Glasses, and Headwear
Official rules state that the child must have a neutral expression and the mouth closed[1][2]. While getting a baby to show a completely neutral face can be challenging, you should wait for a moment when they are calm and quiet. Do not let them smile broadly or cry with an open mouth.
Glasses must not reflect light or tint the eyes, and their frames must not obscure the eyes[1][2]. Removing glasses for the photo can help avoid problems[1]. Headwear is allowed only for religious or medical reasons. The forehead, chin and area towards the ears must remain visible[1][2].
Special Rules for Babies and Young Children
For young children who cannot sit still in front of the camera at the municipality or consulate, bring a photo that meets the official requirements[3]. A minor’s passport is valid for 5 years, but it may become unusable earlier if the photo no longer resembles the child[3].
If your baby is very small and cannot sit up independently, you can lay them flat on a plain light-colored sheet on the floor. Stand directly above the baby to take the photo downward, ensuring they look up toward the camera with their eyes open.
Photo Submission and Official Capture
The applicant supplies a printed photo if the municipality or consular post does not capture it, although many authorities capture the photo themselves[3][1][2]. You should contact your local Belgian municipality or diplomatic post before your appointment to find out their exact capture procedure.
Even if the local office takes the picture during your appointment, you can still use the tool above to rehearse, check a photo, or prepare a copy for other uses, without claiming it will be accepted. Knowing whether your office requires you to bring a print will save you time.
Preparing and Printing Your Photo
If your municipality asks you to bring a photo, check with it about the print format and how to prepare the image.
Cut the photo carefully using a pair of sharp scissors or a paper cutter along the crop lines to reach the final 35×45 mm size. Inspect the printed copy closely for ink smudges, pixelation, or incorrect sizing before you place it into your application folder.