Latvian Child Passport Photo Guide
Prepare an accurate passport photo for your child with clear size, background, and submission rules.
Official Size and Head Height Measurements
The official size for a Latvian child passport photo is 35 by 45 millimeters, which equals 1.38 by 1.77 inches[1].
The head height must measure between 31.5 and 36 millimeters from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head[1].
These exact proportions help the issuing office verify the identity of the applicant quickly. You can use the tool above to crop your child image to these exact dimensions before you prepare the final print sheet.
Background and Lighting Requirements
Official regulations require a light background and no background shadows behind the subject[1].
If you apply through the Latvian Embassy for children under 10, the specific guidance calls for a plain white background[2].
Try to position your child a short distance away from the wall to prevent shadows from forming. Good, even lighting across the face helps meet these requirements without trouble.
Facial Expression, Glasses and Headwear
Your child must display a neutral facial expression when the picture is taken[1].
If the person wears glasses, the eyes must remain visible, the lenses must not be tinted or reflective, and the frames must not be heavy or cover part of the face[1].
Headwear is strictly restricted to religious or medical reasons, and it must never hide any part of the face from the chin to the top of the forehead[1].
Who Takes the Photo and Special Rules
The Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs normally takes the passport photo in person during your visit, but printed photographs remain an allowed alternative[1].
For children under 10 applying through the Latvian Embassy in the UK, bring two colour photos at least 35×45 mm, taken at a photo studio against a white background[2].
PMLP takes children’s photos at its offices. If a child cannot sit on their own for the photo, special photo cards must be submitted for a passport[3].
How to Take the Photo at Home Step by Step
You can take a suitable picture at home by sitting your child in front of a plain background.
Position your camera or phone about one to one and a half meters away at your child eye level to avoid awkward angles.
Ask a family member to hold a toy near the camera lens so your child looks straight ahead with a relaxed expression and closed mouth. Take multiple pictures in bright daylight so you can select the best option.
Printing and Submitting Your Photo
When you choose to print your photo, you can arrange it on an ordinary four by six inch photo sheet to print at a local kiosk.
The official regulation notes a print size one to three millimeters larger than the base 35 by 45 millimeters specification, which you can trim down afterward[1].
Check that the kiosk print does not stretch or resize your file incorrectly. You can use the tool above to format your cropped image correctly onto a standard print layout.
Common Reasons for Photo Rejection
Passport photos often face rejection if the background is uneven or contains visible shadows.
Other common issues include incorrect head measurements, tilted heads, or closed eyes and open mouths that break the neutral expression rule.
Glasses or headwear that do not meet the photo rules may make the photo unsuitable. Check the official rules before you submit your application.
Frequently asked questions
What is the exact size for a Latvian child passport photo?
The official size is 35 by 45 millimeters[1].
Can my child wear a hat in the passport photo?
Headwear is allowed only when worn daily for religious reasons, and it must not cover the face[1].
Who takes the passport photo for a child in Latvia?
The Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs normally takes the photo in person, though studio prints are also an accepted alternative[1].
Do I need a white background for the photo?
Can I use the tool on this page to prepare my photo?
Yes, you can use the tool above to crop your photo to the correct size and prepare it for printing.