Estonian Residence Permit Card Photo Rules and Size
You need a specific photo when you apply for an Estonian residence permit card, known as an Elamisloakaart[1]. Follow these official rules to prepare your photo correctly[1].
Official Photo Size and Head Measurements
The official size for your residence permit card photo is 40×50 mm, which equals about 1.57×1.97 inches[1]. Your head height must measure 35 to 40 mm from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head[1]. Additionally, your eye line must be positioned between 25 and 35 mm from the bottom of the photo[1].
You can use the tool above to crop your image to these exact dimensions before you submit it[1]. This helps you frame your picture correctly right in your web browser without sending your image anywhere else.
Background and Lighting Requirements
The background must be a flat, uniform, light-coloured background contrasting with the face and hair; no specific colour is prescribed[1]. Avoid patterned walls, wallpaper, or dark backgrounds that blend into your hair or clothing. Make sure the entire backdrop is clean and free of shadows or marks[1].
To get good lighting, face a bright window or use two soft light sources placed in front of you. This prevents heavy shadows under your chin or behind your head. Your skin tones should look natural and evenly lit.
Facial Expression and Headwear Rules
You must keep a neutral expression with your mouth closed when the photo is taken[1]. Do not smile, frown, smirk, or open your mouth for the picture[1]. Look directly into the camera lens with your eyes wide open and completely visible[1].
Headwear is permitted for religious or medical reasons only[1]. Even when worn for these reasons, it must not cast shadows or cover any part of your face[1]. Your full face from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead, including both sides of your face, must remain totally uncovered and visible[1].
Glasses and Eye Visibility
Glasses are allowed under conditional rules[1]. If you wear prescription glasses, ensure the frames do not block your eyes and the lenses have no dark tints or sunglasses filters[1]. Watch out for light glare bouncing off the glass surfaces, as this can obscure your eyes and cause the photo to be rejected[1].
Rules for Children and Infants
If you are submitting an application for a young child, note that a photo is not required in the document of a child under four[1]. For older children who do need a photo, try to follow the same basic rules for head proportions, plain backgrounds, and neutral expressions as closely as possible.
Submission Formats and Taking the Photo
You can submit your photo in both printed and digital formats depending on how you file your application[1]. Who takes the photo varies, as applicants can use an available authority-held photo or provide a new photo[1]. If you decide to take your own photo at home, stand about one to one and a half meters away from the camera lens and keep the camera steady at your eye level.
You can easily print your finished image as an ordinary 4×6-inch photo at a local photo kiosk. Use the tool above to format your cropped photo onto a standard print sheet before you head to the store[1].
Frequently asked questions
What is the exact size of the Estonian residence permit card photo?
The official size required is 40×50 mm, or 1.57×1.97 in[1].
How large should my head appear in the frame?
Your head height must measure 35–40 mm from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head[1].
Do babies or young children need a photo for the card?
A photo is not required in the document of a child under four[1].
Can I wear glasses in my residence permit photo?
Glasses are allowed under conditional rules, provided they do not hide your eyes, block your pupils with frames, or create light glare on the lenses[1].
What colour should the background be?
A flat, uniform, light-coloured background that contrasts with the face and hair; no specific colour is prescribed[1].