Swedish Child and Baby Passport Photo Guide
Get ready for your child or baby's Swedish passport application by learning what the Swedish Police Authority requires for photos and visits.
Official Size and Submission Rules
The Swedish Police Authority does not publish a physical photo size for a child’s passport. The police take the photo at the passport office, so you do not need to submit a printed or digital photo[1]. A 35×45 mm (1.38×1.77 in) photo is a common studio size, but it is not an official Swedish passport requirement.
The authority does not set a specific rule for head height in millimeters[1]. Instead, the staff at the passport office manage the camera framing and take the picture directly. Knowing the common size helps you understand what a proper passport photo looks like, even if you do not bring one from home.
Where the Photo is Taken
You do not supply a printed or digital photo for a Swedish child passport[1]. All applicants, including children and newborns, must attend the police passport office, where the photo is taken[1]. You do not need to print or cut out a photo at home.
If you want to practice framing or check how a photo looks, you can use the tool above. It helps you rehearse and prepare a copy for other personal uses. However, keep in mind that the police will take the official picture during your scheduled appointment[1][2].
Background and Lighting Requirements
When you rehearse taking a photo at home, pay close attention to the background and the lighting setup. The authority specifies a light background, evenly lit face, and no shadows or distracting background elements[1]. A plain white or off-white wall works best for this practice session. Make sure there are no pictures, furniture, or patterns visible behind the child.
Good lighting prevents harsh shadows on the face or the wall behind you. Position the child facing a soft light source, like a large window, to get an even glow. Avoid using direct overhead lights that create dark shadows under the chin or eyes. Keeping the lighting bright and uniform helps produce a clear image.
Facial Expression, Glasses, and Headwear
The photo rules require a neutral expression[2]. The applicant should look toward the camera with eyes open and clearly visible[2].
Glasses are allowed under conditional rules, which means they must not have tinted lenses or heavy frames that hide the eyes[1]. Headwear is permitted for religious or medical reasons only[1]. If the child wears a head covering for these reasons, it must not cast shadows on the face or block the view from the chin to the forehead.
Rules for Babies and Children
Applying for a passport for a minor involves specific steps set by the Swedish government. Under-18 applicants need guardian consent from all legal guardians before the passport can be issued[1]. You must bring all required consent documents signed by the guardians to the appointment. The staff will check these forms before taking the photo and processing the application.
There are special age exceptions for certain parts of the application process. Children under six are exempt from giving fingerprints during the appointment at the police station[1]. However, every child, including newborns, must attend the session in person so the staff can take their photo and verify their identity[1][2].
Preparing with the Tool on This Page
Even though the police take the final picture, preparing ahead makes the appointment much easier. You can use the tool above to crop and check your practice images at home. This lets you see how lighting and framing affect a photo before you head out. It is a great way to build your confidence and know what to expect.
Remember that the tool is here to help you rehearse or prepare copies for other needs. It does not replace the official photo taken at the police station[1][2]. Use it as a helpful practice companion while you gather your documents and wait for your scheduled appointment time.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to bring a printed photo for my baby's Swedish passport?
What size is a Swedish passport photo?
The Swedish Police Authority publishes no single official size; the studio uses the size most often asked for, which is 35x45 mm or 1.38x1.77 in[1].
Are glasses allowed in the photo?
Glasses are allowed under conditional rules, meaning they must not hide your eyes or create heavy reflections[1].
Do children under six need to give fingerprints?
Children under six are exempt from giving fingerprints during the police passport appointment[1].
Can I wear a head covering in the photo?
Headwear is permitted for religious or medical reasons only, and it must not cover your face from the chin to the top of the head[1].