Preparing Your Finnish Identity Card Photo
Get the exact measurements and rules you need for a Finnish identity card photo. Use the tool above to crop your image correctly before you apply.
Official Size and Dimensions
The official size for a Finnish identity card photo is 36 by 47 millimeters, which translates to about 1.42 by 1.85 inches[1][2][3]. When you crop your image, your head must measure between 32 and 36 millimeters from the very bottom of your chin to the top of your head[2][3]. You must also leave a top margin of 4 to 6 millimeters above the top of your head inside the final frame[2][3].
Getting these exact measurements right is very important because incorrect framing is a frequent cause of photo rejection by the police. Taking time to measure your digital crop properly saves you from extra delays during your application process.
Background and Lighting
Your photo requires a uniform, light-coloured background without any visible shadows[2][3]. Official police guidance states that light grey is the best choice, and you must remain clearly distinguishable from this background[2][3]. Avoid patterned walls, textured wallpaper, or textured curtains that might distract from your outline.
Try to set up your lighting carefully so that soft, even light falls directly across your face and no harsh shadows appear on the wall behind you. Good lighting helps the police facial recognition systems read your features without error.
Expression, Glasses, and Headwear
Keep your facial expression completely neutral and make sure your mouth is closed tightly when the picture is taken[2][3]. Look straight into the camera lens with your eyes wide open and fully visible to the person taking the photo[2][3].
Glasses are allowed conditionally, provided they do not obscure your eyes in any way and there is no light glare reflecting off the glass lenses[2][3]. Headwear is permitted strictly for religious or medical reasons, and it must never shadow or cover any part of your face[2][3].
Rules for Minors and Children
When you are applying for a minor's identity card, a police station visit is always required[1]. Despite the young age of the applicant, the photo measurements and framing rules still follow the standard police guidelines for all ages[1][2][3].
Children must adhere to the same neutral expression and background rules as adults, which can sometimes require a bit of patience when photographing infants or toddlers. Parents should ensure the child's face is fully uncovered and illuminated evenly.
Digital Files and Paper Submissions
The police usually receive the photo electronically from a photographer, but you can submit a paper photo in person[2]. An electronic photo must be no larger than 250 kB[2].
Many photography studios send pictures directly to the police electronic system, but you can also bring a physical paper photo in person[1]. You can use the tool above to format your image into a standard print sheet easily without losing quality.
How to Take Your Photo at Home
To take your photo successfully at home, stand about one to one and a half meters away from a plain light grey wall. Ask a family member or friend to take the picture using a camera or smartphone held right at your eye level to avoid vertical distortion.
Face a bright window to capture natural light, and check that your entire head and shoulders fit neatly into the frame while maintaining the correct top and side margins. Reviewing the image on a larger screen helps you spot minor flaws before saving.
Common Reasons Photos Are Refused
Photos frequently get refused if the head height falls outside the required 32 to 36 millimeter range[2][3]. Other common reasons for rejection include visible background shadows, tinted or reflective glasses lenses, an open mouth, or an incorrect file size[1][2].
Always double-check your specifications against the official rules before submitting your application documents to the police[1]. Taking these precautions prevents unnecessary setbacks and extra trips.