Dutch Passport Photo Requirements 2026 – Official Rules

Dutch passport photos must be exactly 35 mm wide and 45 mm tall — the standard ICAO biometric format. The photo must be in full colour and sharp focus throughout.

The head height — from the crown (including hair) to the chin — must be between 32 mm and 35 mm. This means the head should occupy approximately 71–78% of the total image height. The face must be centred horizontally, and both eyes should be at the same level.

For digital submissions, the Dutch government requires a minimum resolution of 400 × 514 pixels in JPEG format. When printing for in-person submission, a minimum of 300 DPI is required at the 35×45 mm size.

The Dutch requirement is a plain white or off-white background with no visible patterns, gradients, or shadows. The background must look uniform from edge to edge.

A light grey background is technically acceptable, but pure white is the preferred standard. If your own hair or clothing is very light or white, a very slight off-white or light grey tone can help your head stand out from the background — this is a common recommendation from Dutch passport photo professionals.

When photographing at home, position yourself well away from any wall and use diffuse, even lighting from the front. A plain white or cream wall works well. AI passport photo tools like ID Wizard automatically replace the background with the correct tone.

In line with the ICAO standard, glasses are not permitted in Dutch passport and identity card photos. This has been the rule since the introduction of biometric passports in the Netherlands.

Remove all eyewear before your photo is taken. If you wear prescription glasses daily, you can use contact lenses for your photo, provided they are transparent and do not alter your natural eye appearance. Coloured contact lenses are not permitted.

Expression: Neutral with your mouth closed. No smiling, no frowning. The facial muscles should be relaxed.

Eyes: Fully open, facing directly at the camera lens. Eyes must not be partially closed or looking to the side. Red-eye is not acceptable.

Head position: Face straight-on. No tilting to the left, right, or back. Both ears should ideally be visible. The top of the head should not be cut off.

Hair: Must not cover the eyes or eyebrows. Loose hair covering the face outline will lead to rejection.

Head coverings: Not allowed unless worn for religious or medical reasons. If a head covering is worn, the face from forehead to chin must be fully visible, and no shadows may fall on the face.

Dutch passport applications can be submitted digitally through the DigiD online portal or at a gemeente (municipal office). When submitting a digital photo online:

• Format: JPEG
• Minimum dimensions: 400 × 514 pixels
• File size: typically under 10 MB
• No filters, retouching, or alterations to the face
• Photo taken within the last six months

When applying in person at a gemeente, you bring printed photos (35×45 mm, 300 DPI minimum) or the municipality may photograph you directly. Check with your local gemeente to confirm which method is accepted.