Finnish Passport Photo Requirements and Guidelines
Get your Finnish passport photo right by following the official rules for size, background, and head height. You can prepare your picture using the tool above before you submit it to the Police of Finland.
Official Size and Dimensions
The official size for a Finnish passport photo is 36 by 47 millimeters, or about 1.42 by 1.85 inches[1][2]. Digital images must have dimensions of 500 by 653 pixels[1].
Your head height from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head must measure between 32 and 36 millimeters[1][2]. The top margin above your head must be between 4 and 6 millimeters[1][2].
Taking the photo at home
You can take your passport photo at home using a digital camera or a smartphone. Ask a friend or family member to take the picture for you instead of trying to take a selfie. A selfie causes distortion because the camera sits too close to your face.
Stand about one to two meters away from the camera. Keep the camera at your eye level. Look straight into the lens and keep your shoulders straight and square to the front. Good posture helps keep your head level and aligned properly.
Background and Lighting
You must use a uniform, light-coloured background without shadows[1][2]. Police guidance states that light grey is best, and you must be clearly distinguishable from it[1]. A plain wall works well if it is free of marks or texture.
Face a window or use even indoor lighting to avoid harsh shadows on your face or the background. Keep the lighting bright and natural so your skin tone looks normal and clear. Turn off overhead lights if they cast heavy shadows under your eyes or nose.
Expression, Face, and Head Coverings
You must maintain a neutral expression with your mouth closed[1][2]. Look directly at the camera with your eyes open.
Glasses are allowed conditionally, provided they do not obscure your eyes[1][2]. Headwear is permitted for religious or medical reasons only, and it must not hide your face[1][2].
Checking your photo
Before you submit your picture, check the crop and dimensions carefully. Measure from the crown of your head to your chin, excluding your hair, to verify it falls within the required range[1].
Look closely at the background to confirm there are no faint shadows or patterns. Check that your eyes are fully visible and open, and your mouth is completely closed. If you printed your photo at home, make sure the final physical dimensions match the exact millimeter requirements.
Rules for Children and Infants
The same positioning requirements apply at all ages for a Finnish passport application[1]. The applicant supplies the photo, even for infants[1].
The same positioning requirements apply at all ages[1]. A very young baby's mouth may be slightly open[1].
Digital and Printed Submission
You can submit your application with a digital photo or a paper photo[1][3]. Digital files must not exceed 250 kilobytes for police-server submissions[1].
A photographer usually sends the photo to the police electronically, but you can use a paper photo when applying at a police service point[1]. You can use the tool above to help prepare your image. For electronic submission, save it as a JPEG and use exactly 500 by 653 pixels[1].
Common Reasons for Refusal
The police photo instructions set the head height at 32 to 36 mm and prohibit background shadows[1].
Other common reasons include a smiling expression, open mouth, or heavy frames from glasses blocking your eyes[1][2]. Always check your photo against the official rules before you apply.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct size for a Finnish passport photo?
Can I wear glasses in my Finnish passport photo?
What background color should I use?
What is the maximum file size for digital submission?
The digital file size must not exceed 250 kilobytes when submitting to the police server[1].
Are baby and infant passport photos required to follow the same rules?
Can I take my passport photo using a selfie?
A selfie is not specifically prohibited, but taking a photo too close can distort facial features. Ask someone to take it from farther away[1].