Latvia

Latvian 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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Upload a portrait from your phone or take one with your camera.

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Photo requirements

  • Size: 35×45 mm (1.38×1.77 in)
  • Head size: 31.5–36 mm from chin to top of head
  • Background: White
  • 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 nameLatvijas personas apliecība (eID karte)
How you hand it inPrinted photo or digital upload
Photo size35×45 mm (1.38×1.77 in)
Head height (chin to top of head)31.5–36 mm
BackgroundWhite
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

Latvian Identity Card Photo Requirements

Get the exact official specifications, head measurements, and background rules for your Latvian identity card photo before you apply.

Official Size and Head Measurements

When you apply for a Latvian identity document, your photo must match precise physical standards set by the authorities[1][2]. The official size for the image is 35 by 45 mm, which equals approximately 1.38 by 1.77 inches[1][2]. Getting these dimensions right is the first step in preparing your application materials correctly[1][2].

In addition to the overall photo dimensions, you must pay close attention to the size of your head within the frame[2]. The official regulations state that the head height must measure strictly between 31.5 and 36 mm[2]. This measurement is taken from the very bottom of your chin to the top of your head[2]. Measure this distance carefully before you submit any documents to the issuing office[1][2].

Who Takes the Photo and Submission Methods

PMLP takes photos at its offices. You may also submit a photo if you prefer[1].

A print may be submitted as an alternative to having your photo taken at the office[1]. If you submit a print, the regulation requires it to be 1–3 mm larger than 35×45 mm and to have the photographer’s studio stamp on the back with the date[2].

Background and Lighting Guidelines

The setting behind you must follow strict rules to avoid rejection by officials[2]. Regulations require a light background and no background shadows; they do not specify a color[2]. Plain white or light neutral walls work best as long as no patterns, textures, or objects appear behind you in the frame[2].

Proper lighting is equally important for capturing a clear picture[2]. Position yourself so that natural light falls evenly across both sides of your face[2]. Avoid harsh overhead lights that create dark circles under your eyes or heavy shadows on the wall behind your shoulders[2].

Facial Expression, Glasses and Headwear

Your facial appearance in the photo must be natural yet strictly controlled by official guidelines[2]. You must maintain a neutral facial expression with your mouth closed when the camera shutter clicks[2]. Do not smile, frown, or raise your eyebrows, and look directly into the camera lens with your eyes wide open and visible[2].

If you wear glasses, your eyes must be visible, the lenses must not be tinted or reflective, and the frames must not be heavy or cover part of your face[2]. Headwear is allowed only when worn daily for religious reasons, and it must not cover the face[2].

Special Rules for Children and Infants

Photographing young applicants involves specific administrative procedures[1][2]. Children are normally photographed directly at the PMLP office during your official visit[1][2]. However, applicants may submit an independent photo if desired[1][2].

For a child’s passport, special photo cards must be submitted if the child cannot sit on their own for the photo[1].

Preparing and Printing Your Photo

If you want to prepare a copy at home for personal records, you can use the tool above to crop your image to the correct 35 by 45 mm proportions. The tool runs right in your browser, and your photo never leaves your device.

Once you have prepared your image, follow the office’s instructions for submitting it or having it photographed at a PMLP office[1].

Common Reasons Photos Are Refused

The regulation requires the correct photo dimensions and a light background without shadows[2].

Other frequent refusal reasons include wearing heavy frames on glasses, smiling with teeth showing, or wearing casual headwear that violates the religious and medical exemption rules[2]. Double-check all official requirements before you visit the office or send in your documents[1][2].

Frequently asked questions

What is the exact size of a Latvian identity card photo?

The official size is 35 by 45 mm, which is about 1.38 by 1.77 inches[1][2].

Can I smile in my Latvian ID photo?

No, you must maintain a neutral expression with your mouth closed when the photo is taken[2].

Are glasses allowed in the photo?

Glasses are conditional and are usually only permitted for medical reasons if they do not obscure your eyes[2].

Who usually takes the photo for the eID card?

The photo is normally captured directly by the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs, though a professional photo-salon print is accepted as an alternative[1][2].

What background color do I need?

Regulations require a light background and no background shadows; they do not specify a color[2].