National ID card photo sizes and rules
A national ID photo needs to show you clearly, but the required print size and some photo rules depend on the country. Check the exact document and submission method before you take or print your photo.
Choose the right document and size
The Polish ID card photo (35×45 mm), Italian ID card photo (35×45 mm), and Dutch ID card and passport photo (35×45 mm) share the same outer dimensions. Spain’s Spanish DNI photo (26×32 mm) is smaller. A photo cropped for one size will not automatically fit another.
The listed Spanish and Dutch photos are submitted as prints. Poland and Italy allow a printed photo or a digital file, so check the instructions for your application route.[1][2][3][4]
Compare head position and background
Poland specifies a head height of 31.5–36 mm, measured from chin to top of head. The Netherlands specifies 26–30 mm for applicants aged 11 and over, and 19–30 mm for children under 11. Spain sets no head-height measurement in the cited rules. Italy sets no head-height measurement either, but places the eyes 23–31 mm from the bottom of the photo.[1][5][6][4]
For Poland and Spain, use a white background. Italy allows white, light grey, light blue, or cream. The Netherlands allows white, light grey, or light blue. These choices are not interchangeable: follow the rule for your document.[1][2][6][4]
Take a clear, direct photo
As practical advice, ask someone to take the photo, face a window, and keep the camera at eye level about 1–1.5 metres away. Stand in front of a plain background. Look straight at the camera, keep your head level, and make sure your face is in focus and evenly lit.
Use the expression required for your document. Poland, Italy, and the Netherlands require a neutral expression with your mouth closed. Spain's cited rules do not specify an expression. For Poland and Italy, remove glasses unless there is a medical reason. Dutch rules allow glasses if your eyes are fully visible and there is no distortion or shadow from reflections. The cited Spanish rules prohibit dark lenses but do not require glasses to be removed.[1][5][6][4]
Check face coverings and common rejection problems
The listed Dutch and Italian rules allow head coverings for religious or medical reasons, with the face fully visible. Spain's cited rules require the head to be uncovered, and the cited Polish law does not set a photo rule. Before taking the photo, move hair away from your eyes and keep your face visible.[1][5][6][4]
Blur, shadows, glare, a tilted head, a non-uniform background, or a crop that cuts off part of your head can make a photo fail the stated requirements in Italy or the Netherlands. For Italy, the official page also says not to retouch, recolor, or tamper with the photo.[6][4]
Crop, save, and print the photo
Select the country and document before cropping. The tool above can crop the image to the listed dimensions and arrange copies on a 4×6-inch print sheet. The tool works in your browser, so the photo stays on your device.
For an Italian digital submission, the source sets a maximum file size of 500 KB; for a Polish digital submission, it is 2,500 KB. The facts provide no exact pixel size for these documents.[1][6]
Print the sheet as an ordinary 4×6-inch photo, then check that the print is sharp, the crop matches the required size, and the color looks natural. Follow the authority’s instructions for handing in the print or digital file. A correctly prepared photo still needs approval from the office handling your application.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the same photo for a Polish, Italian, and Dutch ID card?
Those three listed photos are all 35×45 mm, but their head measurements and background rules differ. Prepare the photo for the country and application you are submitting.[1][6][4]
What size is a Spanish DNI photo?
The listed Spanish DNI photo is 26×32 mm. The authority does not set a head-height measurement in the verified facts here.[5][2]
Can I smile in an ID card photo?
Spain allows a neutral expression or a natural smile. Poland, Italy, and the Netherlands require a neutral expression with the mouth closed.[1][2][6][4]
Can I wear glasses in these ID photos?
For Poland, Spain, and Italy, remove glasses unless there is a medical reason. Dutch rules allow glasses with clear lenses if your eyes remain visible and there is no glare.[1][2][6][4]
What background should I use for an Italian ID photo?
Italy allows a white, light grey, light blue, or cream background.[6]