Dutch passport or ID card photo requirements
The Netherlands measures the head from chin to crown at 26–30 mm from age 11, smaller than most countries, and the face 16–20 mm wide. The photo must be printed on smooth, high-quality photo paper at 400 dpi or more and be no more than six months old. Broad smiles and open mouths aren’t allowed.
| Size | 35 × 45 mm |
|---|---|
| Head | 26–30 mm from the chin to the top of the head |
| Background | A plain grey, light blue or white background |
| Glasses | Clear lenses, eyes fully visible, no reflection; take them off if there’s glare. |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed, eyes open, looking straight at the camera |
| Babies | Under 6: some rules are relaxed (head straight, looking at the camera, mouth closed), but the eyes must be open and no supporting hand may show. Up to 10: chin to crown 19–30 mm. |
| Editing | “Niet bewerkt: not edited.” |
Source: rijksoverheid.nl, rvig.nl (2026-11-09).
Taking a Dutch passport or ID card photo
Stand in front of a plain grey, light blue or white background. Glasses are a risk: take them off if they catch the light. Keep a neutral face with your mouth closed. For a baby: Under 6: some rules are relaxed (head straight, looking at the camera, mouth closed), but the eyes must be open and no supporting hand may show. Up to 10: chin to crown 19–30 mm.
Printing Dutch passport photos
8 fit on a 4×6 print, 9 on a 5×7, 25 on A4 and 25 on US Letter.
Questions
What size is a Dutch passport or ID card photo?
35 × 45 mm, with the head 26–30 mm from the chin to the top of the head.
Can I change the background?
The rules say: “Niet bewerkt: not edited.”
Other photos
- 35 × 45 mm photo 35×45 mm
- UK passport 35×45 mm
- Schengen visa 35×45 mm
- German passport (applying abroad) 35×45 mm
- Every passport and visa photo