Netherlands · Passport

Dutch passport or ID card photo: size and rules

The printed Dutch passport or ID card photo is 35 × 45 mm (1.38 × 1.77 in).

Open the studio for this document Your photo stays in your browser.
  • Head 26 to 30 mm
Drawn to scale from the figures in the table. The head shape is only a guide.

Photo specification

Printed photo
Photo size35 × 45 mm (1.38 × 1.77 in)
Head, crown to chin26 to 30 mm (1.02 to 1.18 in)
Paperhigh-quality, smooth photo paper, at least 400 dpi

We check sizes and positions; the issuing authority decides acceptance. Last checked 28 Sep 2026. Rules change. Check the issuing authority’s current instructions before you apply.

Background and editing

The source asks for a light grey, light blue or white background. The rules do not allow digital changes to the photo, so the background has to be right when the photo is taken. Retake it against a plain wall instead of editing the background. PortraitPass keeps background replacement off by default for this document.

Rules from the source

  • Face width 16 to 20 mm; head fully shown and centred.
  • Colour photo, at most six months old; black and white is not allowed.
  • Plain background in one even shade; no shadow on face or background.
  • Neutral expression, mouth closed, looking straight at the camera.
  • Transparent glasses only, with no glare or shadow over the eyes.

Expression, lighting and how recent the photo is cannot be measured from a picture, so check them yourself.

Can you make it at home?

Yes. Nothing in the printed-photo rules says who must take it. Check with your municipality; many people use a photographer or booth. Head height is smaller than the usual 32 to 36 mm.

PortraitPass frames the photo against the head and eye lines above and exports a single photo or a print sheet, with the measurements shown so you can check them yourself.

Sources

Found a wrong or outdated number? Open an issue with the source link.

Common questions

What size is a Dutch passport or ID card photo?

The printed photo is 35 × 45 mm (1.38 × 1.77 in).

Can I take a Dutch passport or ID card photo at home?

Yes. The source accepts a photo you prepare yourself.

What background does a Dutch passport or ID card photo need?

The source asks for a light grey, light blue or white background.

How big should the head be in a Dutch passport or ID card photo?

Measured from the crown to the chin, the head should be 26 to 30 mm (1.02 to 1.18 in).

Where do the Dutch passport or ID card numbers come from?

From the issuing authority’s own pages: Requirements for ID photos (Government.nl) and Photo requirements for Dutch passports and identity cards. Last checked 28 Sep 2026.

Guides for this photo

Other documents with a 35 × 45 mm print