How to Prepare Your Greek Passport Photo
You need a specific photo when you apply for a Greek passport. Follow these official rules to get your picture right.
Official Size and Head Measurements
If you submit a printed photo, it must measure 40 × 60 mm[1]. The authority requires a recent colour digital photo, taken within the last six months[1]. In Greece, submit it through myPhoto; printed photos are accepted only through 31 January 2026 during the transition[1].
Your head must measure between 30 and 36 millimeters from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head[1][2]. Keep your head straight and look directly into the camera lens. Do not tilt your head up, down, or to either side while the picture is being captured.
Background and Lighting Requirements
The background must be uniform, light-coloured, and free of patterns and shadows. Grey with RGB values of (190,190,190) ±10 is preferred[1].
Face a bright window or use even indoor lighting to cast soft light across your face. Harsh shadows on your face or behind your head will cause the passport authorities to reject your photo outright. Check that the light is balanced evenly on both sides of your face.
Face Expression and Accessories
Look at the camera with a neutral expression and a closed mouth. Keep your eyes normally open and clearly visible[1].
If you usually wear glasses, wear them in the photo. They must not cover your eyes or reflect light. Sunglasses and glasses with coloured lenses are prohibited, except dark glasses may be used for medical reasons[1]. A head covering is allowed for religious reasons; medical face covering is allowed with a medical certificate[1].
Rules for Babies and Children
The same face and expression requirements apply to children. The photo must show only the child, with no toys or other people in the frame[1].
For infants who cannot sit on their own, lay them flat on a plain, light-coloured blanket or sheet. Stand directly above the baby to take the photo so the shooting angle remains straight and clear. Make sure no adult hands or supporting objects appear in the final picture.
Submission and Printing Methods
In Greece, submit the photo digitally through myPhoto. Printed photos are accepted during the transition only until 31 January 2026. For applications abroad, the photo may be submitted digitally or as a printed photo; some consulates can take it on site[1].
If you use a printed copy where permitted, you can arrange your cropped 40 by 60 millimeter photo onto a standard 4 by 6 inch layout. You can then print this template at any standard retail photo kiosk on glossy photo paper.
Taking Your Photo Step by Step
For a photo taken at home, place the camera 1.5 to 2.5 metres away to reduce lens distortion[1]. Keep your head and shoulders straight and look at the camera[1].
You can use the tool above to crop your photo to the precise official dimensions directly inside your web browser. The tool above operates locally on your device, which means your private image files never leave your computer or phone.
Common Reasons for Photo Rejection
The authority requires a uniform light-coloured background without shadows[1]. The 30–36 mm head-height range is calculated from its rule that the face height should be 50–60% of a 60 mm printed photo[1]. The source does not say that an application will stall if the measurement is outside this range.
Other common mistakes include smiling, wearing unauthorised headwear, or having reflections on glasses lenses. Check every detail carefully against the official guidelines before you finalise your submission package.