Norwegian Passport, Visa, and ID Photos
Getting your photo right for official Norwegian documents requires close attention to specific dimensions and submission rules. Review the official guidelines below to prepare your pictures correctly before you apply.
Documents Covered for Norway
This guide covers Norwegian passport and child passport photos. A 35×45 mm size is commonly used, but the supplied information does not identify one official size.
This page also covers Norwegian national ID card, emergency passport, and driving licence photos[1][2][3].
Other documents include the Norwegian residence card photo, Norwegian visitor visa photo, Norwegian work residence permit photo, and Norwegian student residence permit photo[4][5].
Finally, you must provide pictures for a Norwegian immigrant's passport photo, refugee travel document photo, and international driving permit photo[6][7].
Size and Dimension Rules
The supplied information lists 35×45 mm as the common size for each document covered here[1][2][3][4][5][6][7].
The supplied information does not list a head-height measurement for these photos. Check the relevant agency’s instructions for any framing rules.
Always check the issuing agency’s detailed instructions before submitting your application. Make sure your entire face is clear and visible in the photo.
Digital and Printed Submissions
The supplied information lists digital submission for standard passport, national ID card, driving licence, and residence card photos[1][3][4]. Check the application instructions for the submission method.
Emergency passports require a printed photo instead[2].
The supplied information lists both digital and printed formats for immigrant's passport, refugee travel document, and international driving permit photos[6][7]. Check each application’s instructions.
Taking the photo at home
Stand facing a bright window to get even lighting on your face. Ask someone else to take the picture rather than taking a selfie.
Keep the camera at your eye level and stand about one to one and a half meters away from the lens. Maintain a neutral expression and keep your mouth closed.
Make sure the background behind you is plain and light in color so that your facial features stand out clearly without any distracting background items.
Tips for Taking Your Photo
Wear regular everyday clothing that contrasts well with your background. Avoid wearing uniforms or clothing that looks like a uniform.
Remove hats and caps unless you wear them for religious reasons. If you wear religious head coverings, make sure they do not cast shadows on your face.
Keep your hair away from your eyes and face so that your features are fully visible to the official reviewing your application.
Checking your photo
Before you send or print your picture, look closely at the details on your screen. Check that your eyes are fully open and looking straight ahead at the camera lens.
Make sure there are no harsh shadows cast under your chin or across your cheeks from overhead lights. Verify that your expression remains totally neutral with your mouth completely closed.
Formatting Your Sheet for Printing
If your application requires a printed photo, you need a standard layout that fits on photo paper. You can arrange your cropped 35x45 mm picture onto a sheet using the tool above.
Print this sheet as an ordinary 4x6-inch photo at any local photo kiosk. Cut the photos carefully along the edges before you submit them.
Submitting to Norwegian Authorities
Always check whether your specific application goes through Politiet, the Norwegian Public Roads Administration, or UDI[1][3][4].
Use a recent photo that clearly shows your face.
Avoiding Common Refusals
Many photos get refused because of poor lighting, shadows on the face, or wearing tinted glasses. Keep your eyes open and look directly at the camera lens.
Head coverings worn for religious reasons are usually allowed, but they must not cast shadows on your face. Your full face from the chin to the forehead must remain completely visible.
Frequently asked questions
What size do Norwegian passport photos need to be?
Norwegian passport photos commonly use a 35x45 mm size[1].
Can I submit a digital photo for a residence card?
Yes, Norwegian residence cards use digital photo submission[4].
Do I need a printed photo for an emergency passport?
Yes, Norwegian emergency passports require a printed photo[2].
Which agency handles Norwegian driving licence renewals?
The Norwegian Public Roads Administration handles driving licence matters[3].