Netherlands
Photo requirements for passports, visas, and ID cards. Includes dimensions, background rules, and biometric requirements for 4 document types.
Helpful pages for document photos in Netherlands
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 Dutch passport or identity card, your photograph must strictly adhere to the standards set by the Netherlands government, known as the Paspoortuitvoering. These regulations are enforced by your local Gemeente to ensure biometric compatibility for international travel. Ensuring your photo meets these precise criteria is the most important step in avoiding delays during your identity document application process.
The mandatory size for a Dutch passport photo is 35mm by 45mm, featuring a plain, light-grey or white background. You must maintain a neutral expression with your mouth closed and eyes clearly visible, looking directly at the camera. Glasses are permitted only if the frames do not obscure your eyes, and head coverings are strictly prohibited unless worn for religious or medical reasons. The lighting must be uniform, avoiding any shadows on the face or background.
See the full 35 × 45 mm §t:edbbff6f§ specifications for exact dimensions, face position, and background rules.
The Netherlands primarily requires physical prints for in-person appointments at your local Gemeente office. However, some municipalities now allow you to upload a digital version via your personal DigiD portal if you are renewing your passport online. Ensure your file meets the specific resolution and file size requirements provided by your local authority, or use a tool like idpic.app to format your image correctly before uploading to the official portal.
Common issues
The most frequent reasons for rejection in the Netherlands include incorrect head positioning, such as tilting the chin too far up or down, and poor lighting that creates shadows behind the ears. Many applicants also face issues with glasses that cause light reflections on the lenses. Additionally, photos older than six months are routinely rejected by the Gemeente, as the image must accurately reflect your current appearance for proper biometric verification.
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
While you can take your own photos, it is highly recommended to visit a professional photographer who is familiar with the Dutch Paspoortuitvoering guidelines to guarantee acceptance. Professional studio sessions typically cost between 10 and 20 euros and save you the hassle of potential rejections. If you choose to DIY, ensure you use a tripod and consistent natural lighting to avoid the common errors that lead to a failed application at the town hall.
For a step-by-step walkthrough, see our DIY passport photo guide or learn how to print passport photos at home.
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