Getting Your Estonian National ID Card Photo Right
If you need a photo for your Estonian Isikutunnistus, you must follow strict official rules. This guide helps you prepare your photo correctly.
Official Size and Head Measurements
For an Estonian national ID card, the photo size is 40×50 mm (about 1.57×1.97 inches), and head height must be 35–40 mm from chin to crown[1]. A photo may be supplied electronically or on paper, or captured at a service point[1].
Check the head height against the official range of 35 to 40 mm from chin to top of head[1]. The eye line must also be 25 to 35 mm from the bottom of the photo[1].
Background and Lighting Standards
The background behind you must meet precise visual standards set by the authority. You need a flat, uniform, light-coloured background contrasting with the face and hair; no specific colour is prescribed[1]. Avoid textured walls, wallpaper, hanging picture frames, or dark shadows behind your shoulders.
To get good lighting without professional studio gear, face a bright window with soft, natural daylight. Stand a step away from the wall to stop your body from casting a dark shadow right behind you for clear contrast. Avoid bright overhead lights that cause harsh glares on your forehead or nose.
Expression, Mouth, and Glasses
The photo rules require a neutral expression and closed mouth[1]. Relax your face into a natural resting position. Do not smile, frown, or raise your eyebrows when the shutter clicks. Keep your lips pressed together naturally.
Glasses are allowed conditionally[1]. If you wear them, the frames must not hide your eyes, and the lenses must not have heavy tinted shades or bright reflections from window light or camera flashes.
Headwear and Children's Rules
Hats, caps, and fashion headwear are generally not allowed in your official identification photo. Headwear is permitted for religious or medical reasons only[1]. Even with approved headwear, your full face from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead must remain clearly visible without any shadows.
If you are applying for a young family member, you should check the age limits. A photo is not required in the document of a child under four[1], which makes the application process simpler for infants and toddlers.
Taking Your Photo at Home
You can take a photo at home if you choose to provide one. Keep the camera level and use the official photo rules to check the background, expression, and framing[1].
Ask a friend or family member to help you take the picture instead of using a selfie arm. Set the camera at your eye level, about two meters away from where you stand. Stand straight, look directly into the lens, and keep your shoulders level.
Checking Your Photo and Print Size
Before you send or print your picture, check the framing. The eye line must be 25 to 35 mm from the bottom of the photo[1].
If you print the photo on paper at home, use matte or glossy photo paper without patterns on the back. Measure the physical print with a ruler to verify it is exactly 40 by 50 millimeters. Keep scissors sharp so the edges stay straight and clean.
Submission Methods and Printing
A photo may be supplied electronically or on paper, or captured at a Police and Border Guard Board service point. If you supply a paper photo, provide one colour photo[1].
When uploading a digital file, check the file format and upload limits set by the online application portal. Keep a backup copy of the image file on your computer or phone until your application is fully processed.
If the Office Takes the Photo
You can also choose to have your picture taken directly at a Police and Border Guard Board service point[1]. This option removes the need to worry about print sizes and home lighting setups.
When you go to the office, dress in simple clothes that contrast with a light background. Brush your hair, remove hats unless worn for religious reasons, and follow the desk worker instructions for posture and expression.
Common Reasons for Refusal
Check your photo against the stated size, head-height, background, expression, and submission rules before applying[1].
Check that your photo follows the official requirements for size, head height, background, expression, mouth position, and glasses[1].
Frequently asked questions
What is the exact photo size for an Estonian national ID card?
The official size is 40×50 mm (1.57×1.97 inches)[1].
Can I wear glasses in my ID photo?
Glasses are allowed only under conditional rules, and they must not obscure your eyes or create glare[1].
What background color should I use?
You need a flat, uniform, light-coloured background contrasting with the face and hair; no specific colour is prescribed[1].
Do babies and toddlers need a photo for the ID card?
A photo is not required in the document of a child under four[1].
How can I submit my photo?
The photo can be submitted electronically or on paper, or captured at a Police and Border Guard Board service point[1].
Can I smile in my ID photo?
No, you must maintain a neutral expression with your mouth closed[1].