Getting Your Norwegian Immigrant's Passport Photo Right
Preparing a photo for your Norwegian immigrant's passport requires following specific rules set by Norwegian authorities.
Understanding the Photo Size and Official Rules
The cited UDI photo guidance gives facial photo requirements but does not specify print dimensions[1].
A commonly used passport crop is 35 by 45 millimeters (about 1.38 by 1.77 inches), but this is not a dimension specified by the cited UDI pages.
The head height is not set by the authority as a strict numerical rule[1]. Instead, you should aim for a clear, centered portrait that focuses squarely on your face.
Where the Photo is Normally Taken
Applicants for travel documents generally do not bring a photo; the police or foreign service mission takes it at the appointment[1]. Children under 3 must bring a printed photo when collecting an immigrant's passport[2].
If you want to practice taking a picture at home, you can use the tool above to crop and check your images. This helps you get a sense of how your portrait looks before official capture.
Remember that the official authority makes the final decision on whether a photograph meets their standards. You cannot guarantee acceptance ahead of time, but preparation helps you understand the framing.
Rules for Children and Young Applicants
Children under 3 must bring a printed passport photo when collecting an immigrant's passport[2].
Older applicants have their photo captured at the police station just like adults[1][2]. If you are preparing a physical print for a toddler, check the dimensions carefully to match the expected layout.
Taking a photo of a young child can be tricky. Laying the child on a plain surface or using soft, indirect light can help you capture a clear shot.
Background and Lighting Requirements
The photo guidance requires even lighting for the background and face, but does not name a background color[1].
Avoid bright flashes that create harsh shadows behind your head or under your chin. Natural light from a nearby window often provides clean, even illumination across your face.
Keep the background plain and free of distracting objects, patterns, or furniture. A simple, neutral wall works best for these types of portraits.
Facial Expressions, Glasses, and Headwear
You must maintain a neutral expression with your mouth closed when the photo is taken[1]. Do not smile, frown, or open your mouth.
Glasses are not allowed in the photo[1]. Even if you wear prescription frames every day, you must take them off to avoid glare and frame obstruction.
Headwear may be allowed for religious or other special reasons, such as illness. It must not cover any part of the face or more of the head than necessary[1].
Preparing and Printing Your Photo at Home
If you need to prepare a printed photo for a child under 3, check the photo requirements with UDI. The cited sources do not specify print dimensions.
Children under 3 must bring a printed photo when collecting an immigrant's passport[2].
Check your printed sheet with a ruler to verify the dimensions before you head to your appointment. Clean edges and correct sizing help your application move forward without delay.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to bring a photo for a Norwegian immigrant's passport?
Applicants for travel documents generally do not bring a photo because the police capture it during your visit, but children under 3 must bring a printed passport photo when collecting an immigrant's passport[2].
What size is the immigrant's passport photo?
The authority publishes no single official size; the studio uses the size most often asked for[1]. The most common size used is 35 by 45 millimeters (1.38 by 1.77 inches).
Can I wear glasses in the photo?
No, glasses are not allowed in the official photo[1].
What are the rules for facial expressions?
You must maintain a neutral expression and keep your mouth closed[1].
Are hats or head coverings permitted?
Headwear is permitted for religious or medical reasons only, provided it does not obscure your face[1].