Dutch passport and ID card photo requirements
MakeAnID.com covers the Dutch ID card and passport photo, listed as “Dutch ID card and passport photo (35×45 mm)” and officially called “Pasfoto voor identiteitskaart en paspoort.” The photo rules are shared: both documents use a printed colour photo measuring 35 × 45 mm.[1][2]
Which Dutch document is covered?
Dutch citizens apply for a passport or identity card through the municipality where they are registered. They must bring a colour photo and their old documents.[2]
The tool above crops a photo to the listed 35 × 45 mm size and lays out copies on a 4 × 6 inch print sheet. The Dutch authority requires a printed photo, so print the sheet on photo paper and check the finished photo’s size before you use it.[1]
Size and face position
The photo must be 35 mm wide by 45 mm high. The face must be 16–20 mm wide, not counting the ears. For applicants aged 11 and over, it must measure 26–30 mm from chin to crown; for children under 11, it must measure 19–30 mm.[1]
Show the full head, centred in the frame, facing forward, with eyes level and shoulders straight. A photo may be refused if the head is tilted, off-centre, cut off, or too large or small.[1]
Background, light and expression
Use a plain, single-colour background in white, light grey or light blue. It must be one shade and contrast enough with the head.[1]
Keep the face evenly lit, with no shadows or reflections. The applicant must look straight at the camera with a neutral expression and closed mouth.[1]
For a simple setup, stand facing a bright window and use a plain wall behind you. Ask someone else to take the photo; keep the camera at eye level and about 1–1.5 metres away. These are practical tips, not extra Dutch rules.
Glasses, head coverings and children
Glasses are allowed if they are fully transparent, the eyes remain fully visible, and there is no reflection or shadow.[1]
The head must be uncovered unless the applicant wears a covering for religious or belief reasons, or to cover hair loss caused by medical treatment. A permitted covering must be one colour and an even shade, contrast with the background, and leave the face fully visible.[1]
Children under 6 do not have to keep their eyes level, hold their head straight, keep their shoulders straight, look at the camera or keep their mouth closed. If someone supports the child, that support must not appear in the photo.[1]
Print and check before applying
The photo must be in colour, a true likeness, sharp, undamaged and at least 400 dpi. It must be no more than six months old, printed on smooth, high-quality photo paper, and not be a copy or altered by computer software.[1]
Before printing, check that the face is clear, the background is even, and no hair or frame hides the eyes. After printing, use a ruler to check the 35 × 45 mm size and face height. Dutch authorities decide whether a photo meets the rules; meeting the listed criteria does not guarantee acceptance.[1][3]
Frequently asked questions
What size is a Dutch passport or ID card photo?
It must be 35 × 45 mm. The face height is 26–30 mm for people aged 11 and over, and 19–30 mm for children under 11.[1]
Can I wear glasses in a Dutch ID photo?
Yes. Your eyes must be fully visible through transparent lenses, with no reflection or shadow.[1]
Can I use a light blue background?
Yes. White, light grey and light blue are allowed if the background is plain, one shade and contrasts with the head.[1]
Can I use the same photo for my Dutch passport and ID card?
The listed photo rules apply to passports and identity cards. The government says you should preferably not reuse the photo from your previous document, and the photo must be no more than six months old.[1]