Finland
Photo requirements for passports, visas, and ID cards. Includes dimensions, background rules, and biometric requirements for 2 document types.
Helpful pages for document photos in Finland
Use these pages to move from country-level requirements to a specific document format, troubleshooting help, and print guidance.
Main document requirements
Open the main document requirements page for this country to see dimensions, background rules, and face-position guidance.
Why photos get rejected
Fix the most common background, framing, and expression problems.
Passport Photo Size Guide
Compare this country's dimensions with other common formats.
How to print passport photos
Print at home or at a pharmacy without scaling errors.
About photo requirements
When applying for a Finnish passport, you must comply with strict biometric standards set by the Finnish Police, known as Poliisi. These regulations ensure that identification documents remain secure and universally recognisable across international borders. Whether you are renewing your travel document or applying for the first time, following the official guidelines is essential to avoid unnecessary delays during the application process.
A Finnish passport photo must measure exactly 35mm by 45mm, with the subject centred and looking directly at the camera. The background must be a solid, light grey colour without shadows or patterns. You must maintain a neutral expression with your mouth closed, and glasses are generally prohibited if they cause glare or obscure your eyes. Head coverings are only permitted for religious or medical reasons, provided your facial features remain fully visible.
See the full 36 × 47 mm §t:f025f36e§ specifications for exact dimensions, face position, and background rules.
Finland operates a highly efficient digital system where you can submit your photo directly to the Police lupahallinto.fi service. If you visit a professional studio, they will provide a unique image code that you enter during your online application to link your photo to the system. Alternatively, you can use idpic.app to format your own photo correctly before uploading it to the official portal for a seamless experience.
Common issues
The most frequent reasons for rejection in Finland include uneven lighting that creates shadows on the light grey background or on the face itself. Many applicants also struggle with facial expressions, as even a slight smile can lead to an automatic rejection by the biometric software. Furthermore, wearing glasses that produce reflections or choosing clothing that blends into the background colour will often result in the application being returned for a retake.
Learn more about common passport photo rejection reasons and how to fix them, or check our passport photo size guide for a global comparison.
Local tips
You can find dedicated photo booths at many R-kioski locations, though professional photographers often provide better results for official documents. Expect to pay between 15 and 25 euros for a professional set, which is a worthwhile investment for a document valid for five years. If you decide to take the photo yourself, ensure you use a high-quality camera and find an evenly lit room to meet the strict Finnish Police standards.
For a step-by-step walkthrough, see our DIY passport photo guide or learn how to print passport photos at home.
Guides