Norwegian Baby Passport Photos
Getting a passport for your baby in Svalbard and Jan Mayen requires following specific rules set by the Norwegian Police. Here is what you need to know about the official appointment and photo standards.
Who Takes the Official Baby Photo
The Norwegian Police take the baby's photo at the appointment[1]. You do not need to bring a physical or digital photo to your meeting[1]. The police use a dedicated setup at the station to capture the image correctly[1].
Because the authorities handle the picture directly during your visit, you will not upload a file for the official application[1]. However, you can still use the tool above to rehearse, check a photo, or prepare a copy for other personal uses without any problem.
Official Size and Dimensions
The police take the baby's photo at the appointment, so you do not need to bring a photo[1]. A 35 × 45 mm (1.38 × 1.77 in) crop is a common practical size, not an official size published by the police.
The head height is not set by the authority[2]. Because official standards do not list a specific millimeter requirement for head proportions with this practical size, you must rely on standard visual balance when framing practice copies at home.
Background and Lighting Standards
The police take the baby's photo in front of a white screen[1]. The photo quality rules also apply to babies[2].
Good lighting helps you avoid unwanted shadows on the white screen. Try to face a large natural light source like a window when practicing your shots, and keep your camera at a straight eye level about one meter away from the baby.
Facial Expression and Appearance Rules
The baby must have a neutral expression when the picture is taken[2]. The baby's mouth must also remain closed in the final image[2]. Even though infants are very young, these strict facial rules still apply during the official session at the police station.
Glasses are not allowed in the photograph[2]. Headwear is strictly prohibited unless worn for religious or medical reasons[2]. Any approved headwear must never cast shadows across the baby's face or obscure facial features.
Special Rules for Infants and Babies
There is no minimum age requirement for obtaining a Norwegian passport for a newborn[1]. The baby must have their eyes open when the picture is captured[1]. A parent may hold the baby in front of the screen, or you can use a white portable screen to block out the background[1].
The exact same photo quality requirements apply to infants as they do for adult applicants[1]. Keeping a very young infant calm, awake, and facing the camera can take some extra time, so plan your day around your baby's natural sleep schedule.
Preparing at Home with the Tool
You can use the tool above to crop and review your practice images before heading out. Preparing practice copies at home helps you understand how lighting and angles affect the final look of the picture.
Always remember that the official photo must still be taken by the police at your scheduled appointment[1]. Use your home practice sessions to get comfortable with keeping the baby steady and awake.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to bring a printed photo for my baby's passport?
No, the police photograph the baby at the appointment; do not bring a photo[1].
What size is a Norwegian baby passport photo?
Can my baby wear glasses in the passport photo?
Glasses are not allowed[2].