Albanian Residence Permit Photo Requirements
Preparing the right photo for your Albanian residence permit requires following official size rules. Here is what you need to know to get your picture ready.
Official Size and Age Rules
The official size for your Albanian residence permit photo is 36 by 47 millimeters, which translates to approximately 1.42 by 1.85 inches[1][2]. When you prepare your application, you must provide an image that was taken within the last six months[1][2].
The application process along with all supporting documents is handled online, and the biometric residence card is issued only after your request is fully approved by the authorities[1][2]. The official residence-permit checklist includes requirements for photos covering minor children and school students, meaning family members who apply for legal residency must also supply pictures[1][2]. However, the official documentation does not list any separate infant photo framing rules or distinct measurements for babies[1][2].
Background Color and Official Guidance
Applicants submit a recent photo, but official residence-permit documentation reviewed did not specify a background color[1][2]. Because the exact backdrop shade is not strictly defined by the issuing administration, selecting a plain, neutral setting is a sensible approach.
When you set up to take your picture, stand in front of a flat, undecorated wall. Avoid busy wallpaper, textured surfaces, or heavy shadows cast behind you. Good illumination helps make your features clear, so try standing near a soft light source or facing a window that provides balanced, natural daylight. Setting up your shot in a bright room prevents dark lighting issues that might make your photo unclear.
Framing and Head Height Specifications
Official guidelines do not set a specific numerical measurement for head height in your residence permit application[1][2]. Even though the exact distance from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head is not explicitly detailed by the authority, you should still center your head properly within the frame[1][2].
Position the camera directly at your eye level, keeping the lens about one to one and a half meters away from your face. Keep your shoulders square, maintain a straight posture, and look straight ahead toward the camera lens to help maintain a well-balanced portrait. Taking the photo from the correct distance prevents your facial features from appearing stretched or compressed.
Glasses, Expression, and Headwear
Official documentation does not specify strict rules regarding whether you can wear glasses, maintain a specific neutral facial expression, keep your mouth closed, or wear headwear for the Albanian residence permit[1][2].
Even though these particular items are unspecified in the official texts, keeping your face fully visible and clear is always a smart practice. If you wear prescription eyeglasses daily, you can wear them, but check that there is no distracting light glare reflecting on the glass lenses. Keeping your eyes open and your head uncovered helps prevent any delays when the State Police or the authority responsible for foreigners reviews your file[1][2].
Taking Your Photo at Home
You can prepare your picture easily at home before you send in your documentation. First, find a quiet room with good lighting and stand facing a plain background. Ask a friend or family member to take the picture for you instead of attempting a selfie, because front-facing camera lenses can distort the proportions of your face.
Check that your entire head and shoulders fit comfortably inside the frame with some empty space around the edges for cropping. You can then use the tool above to quickly adjust your picture to the exact 36 by 47 millimeter dimensions required[1][2].
Preparing and Printing Your Photo
The photo and supporting documents are submitted online. The biometric residence card is issued after approval[1][2].
The application materials are submitted online[1][2]. You may print a copy for your own records, but the reviewed sources do not require a printed photo sheet.
Frequently asked questions
What is the official photo size for an Albanian residence permit?
How recent must the submitted photo be?
Does the authority specify a background color?
Are children required to provide photos for a residence permit?
How can I format my photo easily?
You can use the tool above to crop your image to the correct size.