Preparing for Your Norwegian Passport Photo
You need to know how Norwegian passport photos work before your appointment. The Norwegian Police Service takes your photo directly at your appointment, but you can use the tool above to practice and check your framing[1].
Who Takes Your Norwegian Passport Photo
The police take your photo at your passport appointment, and you do not need to bring your own photo[1].
The tool above can help you practice your expression before the appointment.
Official Size and Dimensions
The police do not publish print dimensions for an ordinary passport photo. A commonly used crop is 35 by 45 millimeters (1.38 by 1.77 inches), but it is not an official size. The cited guidance gives no head-height measurement[2].
You can use the tool above to prepare a photo for other uses.
Background and Lighting Requirements
The guidance requires even lighting on the background and face, but does not specify a background color[2].
For practice, you can face forward and look at the camera. The official photo is taken at the police appointment[1].
Facial Expression and Mouth Rules
You must maintain a neutral expression when your photo is taken[2]. Keep your mouth completely closed during the capture[2]. Do not smile, frown, open your mouth, or make any exaggerated facial movements.
Look directly at the camera and keep your eyes visible[2].
Glasses and Head Coverings
Glasses must not be worn in the photo[2].
Headwear may be allowed for religious or medical reasons. It must not cover the face or more of the head than necessary[2].
Rules for Children and Babies
Children and babies follow the same facial photo requirements as adults[2]. The police take the photo at the appointment, including for children[1].
The police take your child's photo at the appointment[1].
Taking the Photo at Home
You can practice taking pictures at home to get used to the rules. Find a plain wall with good light so your face has even brightness[2].
Stand a short distance away from the wall to avoid harsh shadows. Keep your head straight and look directly at the lens. Having a helper take the picture can make it easier to keep your posture correct.
If the Office Takes the Photo
The police take your photo at your appointment[1].
Follow the police’s instructions during the appointment[1].
Using the Tool for Practice and Other Documents
The tool above can help you prepare a photo for other uses. The police take the official passport photo at your appointment[1].
The police take the official photo at your appointment[1].
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to bring my own photo to the Norwegian passport office?
Can I wear my glasses in a Norwegian passport photo?
No, glasses are not allowed[2].
What background color is required?
Official guidance specifies an evenly lit background but no color[2].
Do babies need a passport photo taken in advance?
No. The police take the photo at the appointment, including for babies and children[1].
What is the official size of a Norwegian passport photo?
The police do not publish print dimensions for an ordinary passport photo. A commonly used crop is 35 by 45 millimeters, but it is not an official size.
Are facial expressions allowed to change in the photo?
No, you must keep a neutral expression and your mouth completely closed[2].
Can I wear a hat in my photo?
Headwear may be allowed for religious or medical reasons. It must not cover the face or more of the head than necessary[2].