Netherlands Passport photo requirements
Dutch passport photos are 35 x 45 mm. For ages 11 and over the head is 26–30 mm from chin to crown and the face 16–20 mm wide (Fotomatrix 2020). Background grey, light blue or white, even and single-coloured.
| Photo size | 35 x 45 mm (1.38 x 1.77 in) |
|---|---|
| Digital size | 413 x 531 px |
| Resolution | 300 DPI |
| Head height (chin to crown) | 57.8–66.7% of photo height |
| Eye line from bottom | Not specified |
| Background | plain grey, light blue or white |
| File format | JPEG |
| File size | No limit published |
| Background editing | Not allowed by the official rules; we crop and resize only |
| Last verified | 2026-09-27 |
Official source: www.government.nl
How to take your Netherlands Passport photo
- Stand about 50 cm in front of a plain grey, light blue or white wall, with nothing else in the background.
- Use soft, even light from the front (a window in daylight works well). Avoid shadows on your face and behind you.
- Have someone else take the photo from 1–2 m away with the camera at eye level. Avoid arm-length selfies.
- Look straight at the camera with a neutral expression, mouth closed and both eyes open.
- Remove glasses, hats and headphones unless the rules allow them (religious or medical exceptions vary).
- Leave space above your head and below your shoulders so the tool can crop to the exact size.
FAQ
- What size is a Netherlands Passport photo in pixels?
- 413 x 531 px, JPEG, on a plain grey, light blue or white background. The printed size is 35x45 mm (1.38x1.77 in). The head should take up 57.8–66.7% of the photo height.
- Can I take my Netherlands passport photo with a phone?
- Usually yes, if the photo is sharp, evenly lit and taken from about 1–2 m away with the camera at eye level. Ask someone else to take it rather than using a selfie at arm's length, which distorts facial proportions.
- Can I wear glasses?
- Many authorities no longer accept glasses in photos, and others require no glare or tinted lenses. Check the official source linked on this page.
- What background should I use?
- The published requirement is: plain grey, light blue or white. Stand about 50 cm in front of a plain wall to avoid shadows.
- Will my photo be accepted?
- We format your photo to the published spec, but acceptance is decided by the issuing authority.
Official source
Requirements are published by the issuing authority at https://www.government.nl/topics/identification-documents/requirements-for-photos. Last verified: 2026-09-27.
Disclaimer: We format your photo to the published spec; acceptance is decided by the issuing authority.