Iceland Passport, Visa, and ID Photo Requirements
Get the exact photo sizes and rules you need for your Icelandic documents. You can use the tool above to crop your pictures quickly.
Overview of Icelandic Photo Rules
Official documents in Iceland require clear, correct photographs. Most applications share a common size requirement, but submission methods differ depending on the document you need.
You must follow the specific guidelines set by Icelandic authorities to avoid delays. Whether you need a passport or a visa, getting the photo right the first time saves you time.
Taking a proper photo means paying attention to lighting, background, and posture. Small details like shadows or tilting your head can cause your application to get rejected by the office.
Passports and Identity Cards
A 35×45 mm photo is a common size for Icelandic passport applications, but the authority takes a new photo at an appointment. It also allows a photo studio to email a photo directly to the District Commissioner’s office[1].
The supplied guidance lists 35×45 mm as a common size for an Icelandic identity card photo, with no head height specified. The application requires an in-person photo appointment[2].
For a child’s application, check the authority’s instructions for the photo appointment and any child-specific requirements.
Driving Licences and Permits
The Icelandic driving licence photo measures 35x45 mm and uses an official size requirement, which you can submit both digitally and in print[3].
For the Icelandic international driving permit photo, the size is also 35x45 mm, but it requires a specific head height of 30 to 36 mm[4]. You must submit this photo in printed format[4].
Keep your shoulders square to the camera and maintain a natural expression without smiling too broadly. Your facial features must be completely visible from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead.
Residence Permits and Visitor Visas
The supplied guidance lists 35×45 mm as a common size for an Iceland residence permit card photo. Check the Directorate of Immigration’s instructions for the photo and submission method[5].
If you apply for the Iceland visitor visa photo, the size is 35x45 mm with no set head height, but you must provide a printed copy for your application[6].
Double-check whether your specific application requires digital upload or physical prints so you do not bring the wrong format to your appointment.
Sea Service Books
The Iceland sea service book photo also follows the common size of 35x45 mm with no single official head height set by the transport authority[7].
You must submit this photo in a printed format for your sea service book application[7].
Make sure your printout uses high photo quality without pixelation or lines across your face.
Taking the Photo at Home
You can prepare your photo at home before you print it out or upload it. Stand facing a bright window to get even lighting on your face.
Keep your camera at eye level and ask a friend to take the picture. Stand against a plain, light-colored wall so nothing distracts from your face.
Look straight into the lens with a neutral facial expression. Keep your mouth closed and your eyes wide open. Do not wear glasses, heavy makeup, or hats that hide your hairline unless worn for religious reasons.
Avoid standing too close to the wall, as this can cast dark shadows behind your head. Step a couple of steps forward to create a clean, soft background shadow.
Checking Your Photo and Crop
Before you submit or print your image, check the proportions carefully. Your head should be centered in the frame with space around your shoulders.
Use the online cropping tool above to adjust your picture to the required 35x45 mm dimensions. Make sure the file format and resolution meet basic digital standards if you are uploading online.
If your application requires a printed copy, print your cropped photo on high-quality glossy or matte photo paper without any ink streaks or blurriness.
Cut the printed picture carefully along the border lines using clean scissors or a paper cutter to maintain straight edges.
Frequently asked questions
What size is an Icelandic passport photo?
The Icelandic passport photo measures 35x45 mm as a common size[1].
Do I submit my passport photo online or in print?
You submit your Icelandic passport photo digitally[1].
What are the rules for an international driving permit photo?
The international driving permit photo measures 35x45 mm with a head height of 30 to 36 mm, and you must submit it in printed form[4].
Is there a specific head height for Icelandic identity cards?
No single official head height is set for the Icelandic identity card photo, which measures 35x45 mm[2].
Can I wear glasses in my Icelandic ID photo?
It is best to remove your glasses to avoid glare and reflections on the lenses that might obscure your eyes.