Estonia ID Card Photo Specifications

Detailed Estonia ID Card Photo Requirements

The Estonian ID card (ID-kaart/Isikut tõendav dokument) is the primary identity document issued to Estonian citizens. The photo requirements are set by the Estonian Police and Border Guard Board (Politsei- ja Piirivalveamet).

Photo Basics

• Your photo must be in color — black and white photos are not accepted
• Must be a recent photo, taken within the last 6 months
• The photo must be clear and in focus, with no blurriness or pixelation
• No filters or editing — do not digitally alter your appearance
• Must reflect your current appearance
• The photo must show both your head and shoulders

Size and Dimensions

• Photo size: exactly 40 × 50 mm (4 × 5 cm)
• Your head must occupy 70–80% of the photo height
• Chin-to-crown distance: approximately 32–36 mm
• Eye line must be positioned 50–70% from the bottom edge
• Distance from top of photo to top of hair: approximately 5 mm
• Head tilt: up to 5 degrees in any direction is tolerated
• Printed on matte photo-quality paper

Pose and Expression

• Face the camera directly — your head must not be tilted or turned
• Maintain a neutral facial expression with your mouth closed
• Both eyes must be open and clearly visible, looking straight at the camera
• Keep your mouth closed — no smiling or teeth showing
• Ensure your face is fully visible from chin to forehead, and ear to ear

Background

• Use a light, plain, single-coloured background
• Acceptable colours: white, light blue, beige, light grey, or light brown
• No patterns, textures, or objects visible behind you
• No shadows on your face or behind your head

Glasses

Glasses are permitted under Estonian law if eyes are fully visible, there is no glare, and the lenses are not tinted. However, removal is recommended.

• Your eyes (pupils and iris) must be clearly visible through the lenses
• No glare or reflection on the lenses
• No tinted lenses (unless medically required)
• Frames must not hide your face or prevent identification

Head Coverings and Hats

• No hats or head coverings are allowed, unless worn for religious reasons
• Religious head coverings require a written assessment from the Ministry of the Interior
• If worn, your full face must still be visible from chin to forehead
• No headphones, earbuds, or wireless hands-free devices

Clothing

• Wear normal everyday clothing
• Do not wear uniforms
• Avoid wearing tops that blend with the background colour

Children and Baby Photos

• The child must be the only person in the photo
• The child's eyes must be open and visible
• For children under 11, the eye line minimum may be 40% from the bottom (vs. 50% for adults)
• No toys, pacifiers, or other objects visible
• Mouth must be closed — avoid large hair adornments
• A plain light-coloured sheet may be used as a background for babies

Source: Estonian Police — Document Photo Requirements

How to Take an Estonia ID Card Photo at Home

You don't need a professional studio. Follow these simple steps using your smartphone.

1

Use a Smartphone or Digital Camera

Any modern smartphone camera works. Clean the lens and use the highest resolution. Use a tripod or ask someone to take the photo. Avoid selfies as they tend to have the wrong angle.

2

Find Good Lighting

Stand facing a window with natural daylight for even lighting. Avoid direct sunlight which creates harsh shadows. If using indoor lighting, use multiple light sources.

Tip: Don't worry if your background isn't perfectly plain. Our AI tool will automatically replace it with a compliant background.

3

Dress Appropriately

Wear normal everyday clothing. Avoid uniforms and tops that blend with the background. If you wear glasses, consider removing them for the safest result.

4

Pose Correctly

Stand about 1.5 meters from the camera. Face directly forward, head level, shoulders relaxed. Make sure both head and shoulders are visible in the frame.

5

Maintain a Neutral Expression

Keep your expression neutral with mouth closed and both eyes open. Look straight at the camera. No smiling or exaggerated expressions.

Good and Bad Examples of Estonia ID Card Photos

Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable ID card photos

Frequently Asked Questions