Greek Residence Permit Photo Requirements and Size
If you need a photo for your Greek residence permit, you must meet specific official rules for size and background. This guide explains what the authorities require.
Official Size and Document Specifications
The cited Attica administration pages request 40 × 60 mm photos[1][2]. Requirements can vary by residence-permit category and administration, so check the instructions for your case.
For the categories listed on the Attica administration page, four recent colour photos are requested, along with digital copies on a CD in JPEG 2000 format[1]. The Southern Sector office says biometric collection is by summons and that fingerprints are not taken from children under 6[2]. The cited pages do not set a head-height measurement.
Background and Image Quality Rules
Your photo must feature a white background[1][2]. The image must be a high-resolution colour portrait[1][2]. Avoid using filters, heavy editing, or low-resolution camera settings that blur your features or distort your natural coloring.
When taking the picture, stand in front of a plain white wall if possible. Make sure there are no patterns, textures, shadows, or household objects visible behind you. Good lighting helps the camera capture your natural skin tone clearly without washed-out areas. Face a window with natural daylight or use two soft lamps placed at equal angles in front of you. This setup prevents dark shadows from forming under your nose, eyes, or chin.
Facial Expression and Pose
The Attica administration’s instructions request a neutral facial expression[1].
Do not smile, laugh, frown, or change your natural facial structure. Keep your head straight and level, tilted neither up, down, nor to the side. Relax your facial muscles so you maintain a natural look while keeping your expression completely neutral.
Rules for Children and Minors
The Southern Sector office says biometric collection also applies to minors, though fingerprints are not taken from children under 6[2]. The cited pages do not specify separate photo rules for minors.
The Southern Sector office says fingerprints are not taken from children under 6, but other process steps still apply[2].
Step-by-Step Guide to Taking Your Photo at Home
You can easily prepare your photo at home before heading to your appointment. First, find a room with plenty of soft, natural light coming from a window.
Ask a friend or family member to take the picture instead of trying to take a self-portrait, because selfies often distort facial proportions and angle the head incorrectly. Position the camera or phone at your exact eye level, roughly one to one-and-a-half meters away from your face. Stand a short distance away from the white background wall to prevent heavy shadows from appearing behind your head. Take several photos so you can choose the one that best matches the official rules and looks clear.
Preparing Prints and Digital Files
Once you have a clear picture, you need to prepare it for your application. The issuing office asks for four recent colour photos as well as a digital copy on CD as JPEG 2000[1][2].
The Attica administration’s instructions specify 40 × 60 mm photos for the categories listed on its page[1]. Check the instructions for your permit category and administration before preparing the photo.