Estonian Long-Stay Visa Photo Requirements
Preparing your Estonian long-stay visa application means you need to provide a correct physical photo[1]. Follow these official specifications to get your image ready.
Official Size and Application Basics
For a long-stay visa, submit one colour photo measuring 35 by 45 mm (about 1.38 by 1.77 inches). It must be no older than six months and glued to the application form, not stapled[1]. You must apply in person; biometric data are collected at submission[1].
You must apply in person at an Estonian representation that handles visa applications or at a Police and Border Guard Board service point in Estonia[1]. Get your paperwork and photo ready before you go. Keep the print flat and clean so you can attach it to the form.
Background and Lighting Rules
Your picture must follow international standards for official documents. The official guidelines state an ICAO-compliant colour photo; the Ministry page does not specify a background colour[1]. Since the background colour is not explicitly set by the authority, you should choose a plain, neutral setting if you take the picture at home.
Good lighting helps your facial features show clearly without heavy shadows. Face a window or use soft, balanced lamps to illuminate your face evenly. Avoid harsh overhead lights that cast dark shadows under your eyes or nose. If someone helps you take the picture, ask them to stand about one to one and a half meters away from you while holding the camera at your eye level. This distance helps prevent facial distortion and keeps your proportions looking natural.
Glasses, Headwear and Facial Expression
The Ministry page does not specify rules for glasses, headwear, expression, or mouth position[1].
The Ministry page does not state photo rules for these items[1]. Follow any additional instructions given by the office handling your application.
Rules for Children and Infants
The Ministry page requires one colour photo, no older than six months, for applicants[1]. It does not specify separate photo rules for infants.
If you are submitting an application for a baby or a young child, taking their picture at home can take patience. Lay the child on a plain white or light-coloured sheet on the floor and stand above them to take the shot, or have a helper hold them against a plain background. Make sure the child's eyes are open and looking toward the camera if possible, and check that no hands or objects appear in the frame.
Printing and Preparing Your Photo
Once your image is properly cropped to 35 by 45 millimeters, you must prepare it for physical submission. The application process requires you to glue the photo directly onto the application form[1]. You can use the tool above to arrange your cropped photo onto a standard 4 by 6 inch photo sheet.
Take this digital file to any local printing kiosk to print it out as an ordinary photograph on standard photo paper. Cut the printed picture carefully using sharp scissors or a paper cutter to match the exact dimensions required by the Estonian authorities. Avoid bending, folding, or writing on the front of the printed picture before you attach it.
Common Reasons Photos Are Refused
The photo must be no older than six months[1].
The photo must measure 35 by 45 mm and be glued to the application form, not stapled[1]. Check that your print is clear and undamaged before you submit it in person.
Frequently asked questions
What size is the Estonian long-stay visa photo?
The official size is 35 by 45 millimeters (1.38 by 1.77 inches)[1].
Do I need a digital or printed photo?
You must submit a printed photo glued to your application form[1].
How old can the photo be?
The photo must be no older than six months[1].
Does the authority specify a background colour?
The official page specifies an ICAO-compliant colour photo, but the Ministry page does not specify a background colour[1].
Where do I submit the application and photo?
The application is made in person where biometric data are also collected[1].
Can I staple the photo to the form?
No, the photo must be glued to the application form rather than stapled[1].