Norway

About photo requirements

When applying for a Norwegian passport, adhering to the strict standards set by the Norwegian Police is essential for a successful application. The authorities enforce precise biometric guidelines to ensure security and facial recognition accuracy. Whether you are renewing your travel document or applying for the first time, your photo must strictly comply with the official specifications defined by the Norwegian Police to avoid processing delays.

The mandatory size for a Norwegian passport photo is 35mm by 45mm, with the head occupying 70 to 80 percent of the image height. You must use a plain, light grey background with even lighting that eliminates shadows on your face or the backdrop. A neutral facial expression with your mouth closed and eyes looking directly at the camera is required. Glasses are generally discouraged to prevent reflections, and head coverings are only permitted for documented religious or medical reasons.

See the full 35 × 45 mm §t:066e4b84§ specifications for exact dimensions, face position, and background rules.

In Norway, the digital submission process is highly integrated with the official police application system. You do not typically upload a personal file; instead, your photo is captured on-site at the police station during your scheduled appointment. Alternatively, you may visit a professional photographer who can transmit the digital file directly to the police portal, ensuring the technical requirements are met before you arrive for your biometric data collection.

Common issues

The most frequent reasons for rejection in Norway include incorrect head positioning, shadows cast on the face, and improper background colour. Many applicants fail because their expression is too relaxed or they are wearing glasses that create glare, which the automated systems immediately detect. Ensuring your hair does not obscure your eyes or eyebrows is another common hurdle that often forces applicants to retake their photos at the station.

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

For the most convenient experience, we recommend booking your appointment at a local police station where they can capture the photo professionally on the spot. If you prefer to prepare beforehand, you can use idpic.app to ensure your framing is perfect before visiting a studio. Professional photographers in Norway charge between 200 and 400 NOK, but using the police station's service is often the most reliable way to guarantee compliance with their internal systems.

For a step-by-step walkthrough, see our DIY passport photo guide or learn how to print passport photos at home.