Your Greenland Residence Card Photo Guide
Learn the exact photo requirements for your Greenland residence card application so you can prepare your picture correctly.
Official Size and Measurements
When you apply for a residence permit in Greenland, you must submit a personal data card with an affixed photo[1]. The official size for this photo is 35×45 mm, which is about 1.38×1.77 inches[1]. Getting these dimensions right is the first step in preparing your application materials.
The Danish National Police photo rules give a head height of 30–36 mm, measured from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head[2].
Background and Lighting Rules
The Greenland residence-card form refers applicants to Danish Police passport-photo rules for photo requirements[1]. Those rules specify a uniform, light-coloured background, such as light blue or light grey[2].
If you have light hair or wear a light-coloured headscarf, the rules state that you must use strong contrast[1]. This means your background tone should stand out clearly against your hair or headwear so the outline of your head is fully visible. When you take your picture, face a bright window to get even, natural light on your face and the background behind you. Avoid harsh shadows on the wall or across your features.
Facial Expression and Headwear
The Danish National Police photo rules require a neutral expression and a closed mouth[2].
Headwear is permitted for religious or medical reasons only. Your face must remain visible. Glasses are allowed under conditions[2].
Taking Your Photo at Home
You can take a photo at home and ask someone to take it for you. Follow the official photo rules when framing the image.
Keep the camera lens right at your eye level. Make sure your shoulders are square and your head is centered in the frame. After you take a good picture, you can use the tool above to crop the image down to the required 35×45 mm dimensions.
Printing Your Photo at a Kiosk
The Greenland application form requires a photo affixed to the personal data card[1]. The form instructions state that biometric capture is not required for this process[1].
To do this affordably, you can arrange your cropped 35×45 mm photo onto a standard 4×6-inch photo template. Save this image file and take it to a local retail kiosk or photo printer. Print it out as an ordinary 4×6-inch photo, then carefully cut out your 35×45 mm picture using scissors and a straight edge. Make sure the paper is standard photo paper without smudges or creases that could obscure your face.
Common Reasons Photos Are Refused
The official photo guidance specifies a head height of 30–36 mm, a uniform light-coloured background, and a neutral expression with the mouth closed[2].
Double-check that your head measures between 30 and 36 mm from chin to top[1]. Verify that your lighting is even and that your expression is completely neutral[2]. Taking a few extra minutes to check these details prevents extra work later. Also check that your glasses, if worn, do not block your eyes or cast heavy frames and shadows over your face.
Frequently asked questions
What size must the photo be for a Greenland residence card?
The official size is 35×45 mm[1].
What are the rules for the background?
Can I smile in the photo?
No, your expression must be neutral and your mouth must be closed[2].
How should I submit the photo?
You must submit a printed photo affixed to your personal data card[1].
What is the required head height?
Your head height must be 30 to 36 mm from the bottom of your chin to the top of the head[1].