Estonian Passport Photo Guide
Get your Estonian passport photo right by following the official rules for size, lighting, and expression set by the Police and Border Guard Board. Use the tool above to crop your image to the correct size before you apply.
Official Size and Framing
Your Estonian passport photo must measure 40 by 50 millimeters, which equals about 1.57 by 1.97 inches[1]. This specific dimension is required by the Police and Border Guard Board for your application documents. Getting the outer dimensions right helps make certain your image fits the official templates without distortion or awkward cropping.
The distance from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head must measure between 35 and 40 millimeters[1]. This framing rule leaves very little room for error, so you must measure carefully from the very tip of your chin up to the crown of your head.
Check the size and framing against the official measurements before you submit the photo[1].
Background and Lighting
The official specification states that you must use a flat, uniform, light-coloured background contrasting with the face and hair; no specific colour is prescribed[1]. Avoid patterned walls, textured wallpaper, or dark backdrops that blend in with your hair or clothing. A plain household wall that meets these lighting and texture criteria works well for a home setup.
Proper lighting is just as important as the background colour when you take your picture. Make sure your face has even lighting with no harsh shadows cast behind you or across your features. You can face a large window during daylight hours to get soft, natural light, or use two lamps placed evenly on either side of the camera.
Turn off any overhead lights that create deep shadows under your eyes, nose, or chin. Check the preview screen carefully to make sure your skin tone looks natural and your entire face is clearly visible. Good lighting helps the issuing authority verify your identity quickly and without question.
Expression, Glasses, and Headwear
The photo must show a neutral expression and a closed mouth[1].
Glasses are allowed conditionally[1].
Headwear is permitted for religious or medical reasons only[1].
Rules for Children and Infants
If you are taking a photo for an older child, the exact same photo size and framing rules apply[1]. The 40 by 50 millimeter dimension and the 35 to 40 millimeter head height rule are mandatory for all applicants who need a photo.
However, an important exception exists for the youngest family members: a photo is not required in an Estonian citizen's document for a child under four[1]. This rule saves parents from the challenge of trying to get a newborn or toddler to sit still with a neutral expression.
If your child is four or older and needs a photo, try taking the picture while they sit against a plain wall. Ask a helper to stand near the camera to catch their attention so they look straight ahead with their mouth closed. Patience is key when photographing children to meet the strict official standards.
Submission and File Requirements
The Police and Border Guard Board accepts both paper and electronic submission routes for your documents[1]. This flexibility lets you choose the method that works best for your current situation, whether you apply online or in person.
The supplied facts do not give a digital file-size limit.
If you prefer to submit a physical copy, you can arrange your cropped photo onto a standard sheet and print it as an ordinary 4 by 6-inch photo at a local kiosk. This gives you physical prints ready to hand in with your paper application package.
Common Reasons Photos Are Refused
The required head height is 35–40 mm from chin to crown[1].
The photo rules require a neutral expression and closed mouth[1].
Poor lighting, blurry focus, and distracting background elements also lead to refused applications. Always double-check your finished photo against every rule before you finalize your submission to help secure the best possible outcome.
Frequently asked questions
What size does an Estonian passport photo need to be?
It must measure 40 by 50 millimeters, with a head height of 35 to 40 millimeters from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head[1].
Can I wear glasses in my passport photo?
Glasses are allowed under conditional rules, provided they do not obscure your eyes, feature heavy frames, or create distracting glares[1].
Do babies need a passport photo in Estonia?
A photo is not required in an Estonian citizen's document for a child under four[1].
What kind of background do I need?
You need a flat, uniform, light-coloured background contrasting with the face and hair; no specific colour is prescribed[1].
How can I submit my finished photo?
The Police and Border Guard Board accepts both paper and electronic submission routes[1].