Photo Rules for the Kosovo Foreigner Identity Card
Check the official photo requirements, background rules, and size details for your Kosovo foreigner identity card application.
Understanding the Document and Submission Rules
The Civil Registration Agency, Ministry of Internal Affairs issues the identity card for a foreigner to people with regulated temporary or permanent stay[1][2]. This identity card is available if you have a regulated temporary or permanent stay in the country[2]. When you apply, you must follow the official procedures set by the administration.
The portrait is captured during enrollment, and the resulting card is biometric. Applicants do not supply a printed photo[1][2]. The cited rules do not set a separate printed-photo size.
Background and Lighting Standards
The photograph is captured electronically according to ICAO standards. The cited rules do not specify a background color[1][2].
Keep your lighting bright and even across your face. Face a window or use soft indoor lights to avoid dark shadows on the wall behind you. Ask someone else to take the picture for you to keep the proportions natural and avoid the distortion that often comes from holding a camera at arm's length.
Head Position and Framing Guidelines
The head height is not set by the authority[1][2]. You can keep your head centered in the frame with your upper chest and shoulders slightly visible at the bottom of the image area.
Keep your posture straight and look directly into the camera lens with a neutral posture. Avoid tilting your head up, down, or to the side so your facial structure appears balanced and clear in the final portrait.
Rules for Glasses and Headwear
Headwear is permitted for religious or medical reasons only[2]. Make sure your face is fully visible from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead if you wear religious or medical head coverings.
The cited rule permits headwear only for religious or medical reasons[2]. It does not state separate rules about shadows, glasses frames, caps, or fashion hats.
Age Exceptions and Children's Rules
For children up to age 12, a photograph is taken but fingerprints are not taken[2]. This rule makes the enrollment process simpler for younger applicants while still capturing the necessary visual identification.
If you are helping a child take the picture, make sure they face the camera directly. Keep infants comfortable and use a plain surface behind them if needed. Young children do not need to maintain rigid expressions, but having them look toward the lens helps create a clear result.
Taking Your Photo at Home
Stand about one to one and a half meters away from the camera. Keep the camera lens at your exact eye level to avoid facial distortion or odd camera angles.
You can use the tool above to crop your image to the correct proportions and check your framing before you finish. Taking your time with these setup steps helps you get a clean, clear portrait file ready for your personal use.
Common Reasons Photos Are Refused
Photos can be refused if your face is obscured by shadows, hair, or prohibited items. Always check that your eyes are fully visible and open.
Blurry images, poor lighting, or incorrect camera distance are common reasons for rejection. Double-check your setup before submitting or saving your digital file.
Frequently asked questions
What is the official photo size for a Kosovo foreigner ID?
Do I need to print a photo for my application?
What are the background color rules?
Can I wear a hat or head covering in the photo?
Headwear is permitted for religious or medical reasons only[2].
Are children required to provide fingerprints?
For children up to age 12, a photograph is taken but fingerprints are not taken[2].