Bosnia and Herzegovina Passport Photo Guide
Preparing a photo for your Bosnia and Herzegovina passport application requires attention to specific rules. Read on to learn about sizes, official guidelines, and how to prepare your images.
Official Size and Guidelines
The authority does not publish a passport photo size. A 35×45 mm (1.38×1.77 in) crop is a guide based on the visa photo rule, not an official passport-photo requirement[1]. Check with the issuing authority about its process.
The visa photo rule sets a maximum head height of 36 mm; it is only a crop guide for a practice image, not a passport-photo requirement[1].
How the Application Photo Is Captured
It is important to understand how the official process works for your documents. The official biometric photograph is captured as part of your in-person application at the Cantonal Ministries of Interior, the Ministry of Interior of Republika Srpska, the Public Register of Brčko District, or diplomatic and consular missions abroad[2].
The cited 35x45 mm dimensions and head-height rules actually come from the official visa photograph regulation and serve as a general crop guide rather than a strict published passport photo-size requirement[1]. Because the actual passport photo is taken directly by the authority during your appointment, you can still use the tool above to rehearse, check your framing, or prepare a copy for other personal uses.
Background and Lighting Setup
For a practice image based on the visa photo rule, use a light-colored, plain background with sufficient contrast to your face and hair[1].
For the best lighting, face a bright window during daylight hours. Natural light illuminates your features evenly without creating harsh shadows. Ask a friend or family member to take the picture for you rather than trying to take a self-portrait. Keep the camera or phone at your exact eye level, positioned about 1 to 1.5 meters away from your face.
Headwear, Glasses, and Appearance
The visa photo rule permits headwear for religious or medical reasons only. It requires the face to remain fully visible from chin to forehead and along both edges[1].
The cited sources do not specify passport-photo rules for glasses. For a practice photo, check that glare does not obscure your eyes.
Rules for Children and Infants
The visa photo rule says a child must be photographed alone, with the face fully visible and eyes open[1].
To take a photo of an infant, lay the baby flat on a plain, light-colored sheet or blanket on the floor. Stand directly above the baby and hold the camera steady at a comfortable distance. Wait until the child is calm, awake, and looking upward before you capture the shot.
Preparing a Copy with the Tool Above
You can use the tool above to crop a practice image. The 35×45 mm size is a visa-photo guide, not a passport-photo requirement[1].
If you need a personal copy, check the tool's instructions for saving or printing it.
Frequently asked questions
What is the photo size for a Bosnia and Herzegovina passport?
Where is the official passport photo captured?
The official biometric photograph is captured as part of your in-person application at competent ministries or diplomatic missions[2].
What background color is required for the photo?
You must use a light-colored, plain background with sufficient contrast to your face and hair[1].
Are head coverings allowed in the passport photo?
Headwear is permitted for religious or medical reasons only, and your full face must remain visible[1].
What are the specific rules for photographing an infant?
The child must be photographed alone, with their face fully visible and their eyes open[1].