Sint Maarten Passport Photo Requirements and Guidelines
Prepare an official 35 by 45 mm passport photo for your Sint Maarten application by following exact size, lighting, and pose rules.
Official Size and Layout Requirements
When you apply for a Dutch passport through the Sint Maarten Civil Registry, you must provide a recent color photo that meets strict official standards[1]. The official size of the photo is 35 by 45 mm, which is about 1.38 by 1.77 inches[1][2]. Your head must measure from 26 to 30 mm from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head[1][2]. You must look straight at the camera lens, and your head must not be tilted to either side[2]. Your shoulders must also be square and facing forward.
To get the correct crop and proportions before you print your photo sheet, you can use the tool above.
Background and Lighting Setup
The background behind you must be plain, uniform, and free of any patterns, objects, or textures[1][2]. Acceptable background colors include light grey, light blue, or white, and Sint Maarten's minor passport instructions specifically mention light grey or pale blue[1][2]. Make sure there are no shadows cast on the background wall or on any part of your face.
Stand about one meter away from the background surface to minimize shadow issues. Face a bright window or arrange soft, even lighting so your entire face is clearly illuminated without any harsh glares or dark spots.
Pose, Expression, and Head Coverings
The photo requirements call for a neutral expression, a closed mouth, and eyes looking straight at the camera[2].
Glasses must have clear lenses, with no glare or shadows, and your eyes must remain visible[2]. The cited rules allow head coverings for religious reasons or when medical treatment has caused hair loss; the covering must be plain and one colour[2]. Your face must remain fully visible[2].
Rules for Children and Infants
Different regulations apply if you are taking a passport photo for a baby or a young child. Dutch passport photo rules state that children under the age of six are exempt from several standard adult requirements[2]. These exempted children do not need to maintain a neutral expression, look straight at the camera lens, keep their mouth closed, align their eyes horizontally, keep their head perfectly straight, or maintain straight shoulders[2].
If you need to support an infant while taking the picture, your hands, arms, or any supporting objects must not be visible in the final frame[2]. For children age 10 and under, the face length can measure from 19 to 30 mm from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head[2].
Preparing and Printing Your Photo
The Government of Sint Maarten requires you to supply a recent photo that is no more than six months old at the time of your application[1]. The final image must be printed in color on smooth photo paper rather than textured or matte surfaces[1][2]. Avoid using home inkjet printers with low-quality paper that causes pixelation or blurring.
You can easily format your properly cropped photo onto a standard 4 by 6 inch sheet using the tool above, and then print it out at a local photo printing kiosk. Always verify that the printed dimensions match the exact millimeter requirements before you visit the office.
Common Reasons Photos Are Refused
The requirements specify even lighting without shadows, the stated head measurements, a neutral expression, and a head that is not tilted[2]. Check these points before submitting your photo.
If you wear glasses with thick frames, colored lenses, or frames that cover your eyes, the civil registry may reject the application[2]. Always double-check your printed photo against the official measurements before you submit your documents.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wear glasses in my Sint Maarten passport photo?
You can wear prescription glasses only if the frames do not obscure your eyes and the lenses are completely clear without any glare or tint[2].
How old can the passport photo be?
The Government of Sint Maarten requires your photo to be recent and taken no more than six months before you apply[1].
Can I smile in the photo?
No, you must maintain a neutral expression with your mouth completely closed[2].
What background color should I use?
Do babies have to follow the same rules?
Children under six do not need to have a neutral expression, keep their mouth closed, or look straight ahead, and children age 10 and under can have a face length between 19 and 30 mm[2].