May 28, 2026 · Requirements & Rules
Greek Passport Photo Requirements 2026 – Hellenic Police Rules
Greece uses a passport photo format that is larger than the standard ICAO size used by most other countries. If you are applying for a Greek passport or the Δελτίο Ταυτότητας (national identity card), it is important to understand this difference before having your photo taken. This guide covers the Hellenic Police requirements, the size exception, and common rejection reasons.
Important: Greece uses a larger photo size
Greece requires a 40×60mm passport photo — larger than the ICAO standard 35×45mm used by most EU countries. Do not use the standard size for a Greek application. Always verify the current requirement with the Hellenic Police (Ελληνική Αστυνομία) before submitting.
Quick reference: Greek passport photo
- Size: 40mm wide × 60mm tall (verify with Hellenic Police)
- Background: Plain white (no shadows, no patterns)
- Expression: Neutral, mouth closed, eyes open and looking straight ahead
- Glasses: Not permitted
- Recency: Taken within the last 6 months
- Taken within: 6 months of application date
Always verify with the official Hellenic Police authority before submitting.
Hellenic Police (Ελληνική Αστυνομία) Requirements
The Hellenic Police (Ελληνική Αστυνομία) is the authority responsible for issuing Greek passports and national identity cards (Δελτίο Ταυτότητας). Applications can be submitted at local police stations (Αστυνομικά Τμήματα) or through the Greek consulate if you are applying from abroad.
Greece aligns with ICAO biometric requirements in terms of face visibility, expression, and lighting — but uses a larger photo format (40×60mm) compared to the 35×45mm used by most EU countries. This is a well-known exception in European passport photography. If you are unsure whether your specific application requires 40×60mm or a different size, always confirm directly with the issuing office.
Greek National Identity Card (Δελτίο Ταυτότητας)
The Δελτίο Ταυτότητας (Greek national identity card) uses the same photo requirements as the passport. Both documents are biometric and use the holder's photo for electronic and visual verification. Whether you are applying for a passport or the national identity card, you will need a photo that meets the same size and quality standards.
Greek citizens may use the national identity card as a travel document within the EU/EEA and in certain other countries. Keeping your identity card photo current and compliant with the latest requirements is important for both domestic identification and travel.
No Glasses Allowed
Like all ICAO-aligned countries, Greece does not permit glasses in passport photos. The ban on glasses is driven by the needs of automated biometric facial recognition systems used at border crossings — glasses can cause glare and frame obstruction that reduces matching accuracy.
Transparent contact lenses are permitted. Coloured or tinted contact lenses that visibly alter the colour of your eyes are not permitted.
Create Your Biometric Passport Photo Online
ICAO-compliant biometric photo with free preview before payment. From EUR 4.99 / CHF 4.99, no subscription. Always verify the final size with the Hellenic Police.
Get started for free →Comparison: Greece vs Italy, Spain, France
| Country | Photo Size | Background | Head Height | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🇬🇷 Greece | 40×60mm | White | Face clearly visible | Exception — larger than ICAO standard |
| 🇮🇹 Italy | 35×45mm | White / light grey | 32–36mm | ICAO standard |
| 🇪🇸 Spain | 32×26mm or 35×45mm | White | ~70% of frame | Traditional or ICAO format |
| 🇫🇷 France | 35×45mm | White / off-white | 32–36mm | ICAO standard |
Always verify with the official authority before submitting your application.
Common Rejection Reasons
Photo taken at wrong size (e.g. 35×45mm instead of the required 40×60mm)
Glasses visible in the photo
Background not plain white
Shadows on the face or background
Head tilted, turned, or not centred
Non-neutral expression, open mouth, or closed eyes
Photo older than 6 months
Hair or shadow obscuring part of the face
Head covering (unless religious/medical exception applies)
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I apply for a Greek passport?
Greek passports can be applied for at local Hellenic Police stations (Αστυνομικά Τμήματα) in Greece, or at Greek consulates and embassies abroad.
How long is a Greek passport valid?
Greek passports are valid for 10 years for adults. A new photo is required each time you apply for or renew your passport.
Can I smile in my Greek passport photo?
No. A neutral expression is required — mouth closed, eyes open, looking directly at the camera. This is a standard ICAO biometric requirement.
Is there a specific resolution required for digital Greek passport photos?
Digital submissions should be high-resolution JPEG files. The exact digital requirements should be confirmed with the issuing authority, as they may vary depending on the application channel.
Create your biometric passport photo now
Free preview · ICAO compliant · from EUR 4.99 · no subscription
Upload photo →