Estonia Long-stay (D) Visa Photo Specifications

Detailed Estonia Long-stay (D) Visa Photo Requirements

The Estonia long-stay visa (D-visa) allows stays exceeding 90 days. The photo requirements follow standard ICAO guidelines with a 35×45 mm format, which is different from the 40×50 mm used for other Estonian documents.

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 35 × 45 mm (3.5 × 4.5 cm)
• Your head must occupy 70–80% of the photo height
• 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 plain white background
• No patterns, textures, or objects visible behind you
• No shadows on your face or behind your head

Glasses

Glasses are not recommended for visa photos. If you must wear them:

• Your eyes (pupils and iris) must be clearly visible through the lenses
• No glare or reflection on the lenses
• No tinted lenses
• 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
• 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 white tops that blend with the white background

Children and Baby Photos

• The child must be the only person in the photo
• The child's eyes must be open and visible
• No toys, pacifiers, or other objects visible
• Mouth must be closed — avoid large hair adornments
• A plain white sheet may be used as a background for babies

Sources: Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs — Long-stay D Visa | Estonian Police — Document Photo Requirements

How to Take an Estonia Long-stay (D) Visa 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 white. Our AI tool will automatically replace it with a compliant white background.

3

Dress Appropriately

Wear normal everyday clothing. Avoid uniforms and white 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 Long-stay (D) Visa Photos

Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable visa photos

Frequently Asked Questions