Belgium

Belgian national identity card photo (35×45 mm)

Required size: 35×45 mm (1.38×1.77 in). Your photo is processed on your device.

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Photo requirements

  • Size: 35×45 mm (1.38×1.77 in)
  • Head size: 31–36 mm from chin to top of head
  • Background: White, Light grey, Light blue
  • Privacy: Processed on your device; the photo is not uploaded

Background

Put an accepted colour behind you. This happens on your device.

Download or print

Download a single photo, or a sheet with several copies to print at a photo kiosk.

💡 Printing tip

Save the sheet to your phone or a USB drive and order it at a photo kiosk as a standard 4×6-inch print.

Choose an ordinary photo print, not the passport photo service.

Official specification

Official nameElektronische identiteitskaart (eID) / carte d'identité électronique (eID) / elektronischer Personalausweis
How you hand it inPrinted photo
Photo size35×45 mm (1.38×1.77 in)
Head height (chin to top of head)31–36 mm
BackgroundWhite, Light grey, Light blue
GlassesTake them off, unless you can’t for medical reasons
Head coveringOnly for religious or medical reasons, with the face fully visible
ExpressionNeutral, mouth closed, eyes open

Official Requirements for Your Belgian National Identity Card Photo

The Belgian eID photo matrix sets the photo size and appearance requirements[1]. Municipalities may take the photo or accept one you provide, depending on their procedure[2][1].

Size and Head Measurements

The official eID photo size is 35×45 mm (about 1.38×1.77 inches), with a head height of 31–36 mm from chin to top of head[1]. Photos must meet the official photo requirements[1].

The head must measure 31–36 mm from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head[1]. Follow the photo matrix for the full framing requirements.

Background and Lighting Specifications

The official photo matrix requires a uniform light background and an ICAO-compliant photo[1].

To get this at home, stand in front of a plain, light-colored wall with no patterns, posters, or textured wallpaper. Turn off any colored lights in the room. Face a window to get soft, even daylight on your face. Avoid harsh side lighting that casts dark shadows on one side of your nose or cheeks. Do not use strong indoor flash because it creates bright reflection spots on your skin.

Facial Expression, Eyes and Headwear

The photo matrix requires a neutral expression and a closed mouth. Glasses are allowed only under specified conditions, and headwear is permitted only for religious or medical reasons[1].

Rules for Children and Age Groups

Belgian citizens aged 12 and over receive an eID; children under 12 use a Kids-ID[2]. Ask your municipality how it handles the photo for a child’s application.

Submission Guidelines and Municipal Procedures

Municipalities either capture the photo or accept an applicant photo, depending on their procedure[2][1]. Check with your municipality to find out what to bring.

The eID is issued by the FPS Interior, Directorate-General for Identity and Citizen Affairs, working together with your local municipality[2]. Because procedures differ across towns, call your town hall or check their official website before you visit.

Taking and Printing Your Photo at Home

If your municipality asks you to bring a photo, follow its instructions for taking and preparing it. The official photo size is 35×45 mm[1].

Ask a friend or family member to take the picture using a digital camera or phone. Do not use the front-facing selfie camera, because it distorts facial proportions. Stand about two meters away from the camera, and let the person taking the photo zoom in slightly to keep your face natural.

Before You Go

If your municipality asks you to bring a photo, follow its instructions for preparing the print[2][1].

If your municipality takes the photo, ask it what to bring to your appointment[2][1].

Frequently asked questions

What are the exact dimensions for a Belgian eID photo?

The official size is 35 by 45 mm, with a head height of 31 to 36 mm measured from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head[1].

Can I wear glasses in my Belgian identity card photo?

Glasses are conditional and only allowed if your eyes are completely visible without any frame obstruction or flash glare[1].

Who takes the photo for the Belgian eID?

The process varies by municipality: it may capture the photo or accept an applicant photo[2][1]. Check with your municipality for its procedure.

What background color must I use?

The background must be a uniform light background that complies with international ICAO standards[1].

Do children need a photo for their ID documents?

Belgian citizens aged 12 and over receive an eID, while children under 12 use a Kids-ID[2].

How should I print my photo for the application?

The photo process varies by municipality. Check whether yours captures the photo or asks you to bring one[2][1].

What should I do if my municipality takes the photo directly?

If your municipal office takes the photo during your appointment, you do not need to bring a paper print[2][1].