North Macedonian Residence Permit Photo Guide
Get the right size and look for your North Macedonian residence permit photo so your application moves forward without delays.
Official Size and Submission Requirements
The rulebook specifies a 3.5 × 4.5 cm portrait for a temporary residence permit. Officials photograph the applicant and store the portrait electronically[1]. It does not give a head-height measurement[1].
Officials take the portrait and store it electronically[1]. You can practice your pose and clothing before your appointment.
Background and Lighting Guidelines
The regulation calls for a plain, light-coloured background with no other people or objects[1].
Good lighting helps the camera capture your true skin tone and facial features clearly. Face directly toward a large window during daylight hours to get soft, even light on your face. Turn off overhead lights that create yellow casts or harsh overhead shadows. Ask a friend or family member to take the picture instead of trying a selfie, and keep the camera at your eye level about one to one and a half meters away.
Head Position and Facial Expression
The regulation specifies an ICAO-style frontal pose where you face the camera directly[1]. Your shoulders and head must be square to the camera lens without tilting your head up, down, or to either side. Center your face in the middle of the frame so the composition looks balanced and professional.
The regulation requires a neutral, clear expression[1]. Keep your face relaxed and look toward the camera.
Glasses and Head Coverings
Glasses are allowed if they do not obscure the eyes or reflect light[1].
Head coverings are normally not worn, with exceptions for religious or medical reasons[1]. If you wear one, keep your face visible.
Rules for Children and Minors
Biometrics are collected before permit issuance[1]. Foreign minors under 12 are exempt from fingerprints and a digital signature[1]. However, the cited provision does not exempt them from needing the photograph[1]. This means infants and young children must still have a valid photo taken for their residence permit application.
Taking a photo of a baby or toddler can take extra patience. Lay the child on a plain, light-coloured sheet on the floor if they cannot sit up on their own. Stand or kneel above them to take the picture straight down, making sure their face is fully visible with a neutral expression and mouth closed.
Preparing Your Photo With the Tool Above
The submission for this permit is digital[1]. While officials often take the photo themselves, you can still prepare and check your image beforehand using the tool on this page. Cropping your image to the correct dimensions helps you review your pose and lighting at home. You can test different pictures to see which one fits the required frontal pose and background rules best.
Remember that the final decision on photo acceptance always rests with the issuing authority. Using the tool helps you practice and get ready, but you should always follow the direct instructions given by the Ministry of Interior during your application process.
Frequently asked questions
What is the official size of the North Macedonian residence permit photo?
The official size is 35×45 mm, or 1.38×1.77 inches[1].
Can I wear glasses in my residence permit photo?
Glasses are allowed conditionally, but they must not obscure your eyes or reflect light[1].
Are head coverings permitted?
Head coverings are normally not worn, except for religious or medical reasons[1].
Do children need a photo for the permit?
Yes, foreign minors under 12 must still provide a photograph even though they are exempt from fingerprints and digital signatures[1].
Who takes the official photo?
Officials from the Ministry of Interior photograph the applicant and store the portrait electronically[1].