Netherlands passport / visa photo requirements and size

Leaving passport preparations, including your Netherlands passport photo, to the last minute can increase costs and possibly delay your trip. It's essential to ensure that all details are carefully addressed.

Photo specifications

• Size of Dutch photo: 35x45mm
• Color: Must be in full color
• Head size & position: Full face, remember to look straight into the camera
• Background: White
• Smile: Neutral facial expression
• Eyes: Must be visible & open
• Glasses: None are allowed. However, you are allowed to use your daily wearing glasses for medical reasons, no sunglasses.
• Headgear: None, but you may wear headgear if it's strictly for religious reasons
• Quantity: Two (2) photographs

Netherlands passport photo size requirements guide

The Netherlands passport and visa photo requirements, rules, guidelines, and specifications

Should you fail to meet some of these photo requirements, then you risk a denied visa application as a result. Always make sure that your photo abides by the rules of the Netherlands Government.

Here are a few tips on taking an approved photograph:

• Your photograph should have a white background; this could be a white-painted wall/door.
• Always look straight ahead, do not tilt your head
• Size: 35mm x 45mm
• Photo must have been taken within the past 6 months.
• Do not wear hats or scarves that may block your face. Also, make sure to tuck your hair behind your ears.
• If you use glasses, then be careful to avoid glares on the glass lenses.
• Two (2) photographs are required.

Rules and requirements for babies, infants, and newborns

The passport photo has the exact same requirements for both adults and children. This generally applies to any visa application as well as the required passport photo. If you need to take pictures of your baby, check out these tips.

• The baby's eyes have to be open. A lot of parents recommend taking the pictures after the baby has had a nap or rest. This way you can ensure that the baby will be happier and wide awake for the photo session.
• The background must be white; you can use a white blanket or a bed sheet placed behind the baby's head.
• If your baby is very young, then you can take your baby and lay the baby on a table with a white background or in its car seat and take the passport photo there. As soon as the baby is ready and in position, take the photo.
• Finally, take multiple photos so that you will have many options to choose from.

Learn more about where you you travel once you have your new passport, and apply for a visa with us!