Norwegian Work Residence Permit Photo Guide
When you apply for a Norwegian work residence permit, the police or a foreign service mission takes your photo during your biometrics appointment[1].
Who Takes Your Photo
The police or a foreign service mission takes your photo at the biometrics appointment. You do not need to bring your own photo[1].
Because the authority takes the picture itself, you simply show up and follow the directions given by the office personnel[1]. You do not have to worry about printing or cutting out pictures at home for this application[1]. You can still use the tool above to rehearse your pose, check a photo, or prepare a copy for other personal uses.
Photo Size and Measurements
The cited guidance does not specify print dimensions[2]. A commonly used crop is 35 by 45 mm (1.38 by 1.77 in), but it is not an official size for a residence permit photo.
The cited guidance does not state a head-height measurement[2]. A commonly used crop is 35×45 mm, but it is not an official size.
Background and Lighting Conditions
The photo guidance requires even lighting for the background and face but does not specify a background color[2].
The police or a foreign service mission takes your photo at the biometrics appointment[1].
Facial Expressions and Mouth Rules
The photo guidance requires a neutral expression and a closed mouth[2].
Keep your face relaxed during the session. Do not smile, frown, or open your lips. Look directly into the camera lens with a natural, calm expression.
Glasses and Headwear Restrictions
Glasses are not allowed in your residence permit photo[2]. Even if you wear prescription frames every single day, you must take them off before the camera clicks[2].
Headwear may be allowed for religious or other special reasons, such as illness. It must not cover any part of the face or more of the head than necessary[2]. Taking off your glasses avoids glare on the lenses and prevents frames from hiding your eyes.
Requirements for Children and Infants
For residence cards, children under 6 provide a photo; children aged 6 to 10 provide a photo and fingerprints; those over 10 provide a photo, fingerprints, and a signature[1].
The same facial photo requirements apply to children and adults[2]. A photo is required for residence cards at every age[3].
Preparing and Practicing at Home
Since the official photo is taken in person at an official office[1], you will not submit a homemade print for your primary application. However, preparing early helps you get comfortable with keeping a neutral expression and posing without glasses.
You can use the tool above to prepare a photo for other uses.
Before Your Biometrics Appointment
Before you go to your appointment at the police or foreign service mission, make sure you check your paperwork and appointment details. Plan to arrive a few minutes early so you are calm and ready when your turn arrives.
Dress in simple clothing without prominent patterns or logos. Since your photo is taken on site[1], you do not need to hunt down a photo booth or print out paper copies ahead of time. Simply focus on following the rules for your facial expression, removing your glasses, and keeping your head uncovered unless you have a religious or medical exemption[2].
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to bring my own photo for a Norwegian work residence permit?
No, your photo is captured at the police or a foreign service mission during your biometrics appointment[1].
What size is the residence permit photo?
The cited guidance does not specify print dimensions. A commonly used crop is 35×45 mm (1.38×1.77 in), but it is not an official size[2].
Can I wear glasses in my official photo?
No, glasses are not allowed in your residence permit photo[2].
Are children required to have their photo taken?
Yes, children of all ages must have a photo taken, following the same face-photo requirements as a passport[3].
Is background color specified by the authority?
The guidance requires even lighting for the face and background but does not specify a background color[2].
What should I wear to my biometrics appointment?
Wear simple clothing without prominent patterns. Remember that you must remove your glasses and keep your head uncovered unless you qualify for a religious or medical exemption[2].