Finland Passport Photo Specifications

Detailed Finland Passport Photo Requirements

The Finnish Police (Poliisi) has precise requirements for passport photos. Finland is the only EU country using the 36×47 mm format. Below is a comprehensive guide based on the official Poliisi instructions.

Photo Basics

• Color preferred (black and white also 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 digital editing — do not alter your appearance
• Must show your natural skin tone

Size and Dimensions

• Photo size: exactly 36 × 47 mm (3.6 × 4.7 cm)
• Your head must measure 32–36 mm from chin to crown (70–80% of photo height)
• Top margin: 4–6 mm above the crown
• Bottom margin: 7–9 mm below the chin
• Face centering: max 1.5 mm deviation from photo center
• Printed on matte photo-quality paper
• Digital version: exactly 500 × 653 pixels, JPEG format, max 250 KB

Pose and Expression

• Face the camera directly — your head must not be tilted or turned
• Keep your head straight, shoulders in line with your face
• Maintain a neutral facial expression with your mouth closed
• Both eyes must be open and clearly visible, looking straight at the camera

Background

• Light grey recommended, or plain white
• Must be light, neutral, and monochromatic
• Your face, hair, and clothes must stand out clearly from the background
• No patterns, textures, or objects visible behind you
• No shadows on your face or behind your head

Glasses

Glasses are allowed but strongly recommended to remove. If you wear glasses:

• No glare or reflections on the lenses
• Frames must not cover your eyes
• No thick frames that obscure facial features
• No tinted lenses
• Sunglasses are forbidden

Head Coverings

• Not permitted unless for religious or medical reasons
• If worn, head coverings must not cast shadows or cover facial features
• Your full face must be clearly visible from chin to forehead

Clothing

• Wear everyday attire
• No uniforms
• Darker colors recommended to contrast with the light background
• Avoid white or light beige tops that blend with the background

Children and Baby Photos

• Same requirements apply as for adults
• 1 photo is needed
• The photo can be reused from a recent passport application if it is under 6 months old
• The child must be the only person in the photo
• No toys, pacifiers, or other objects visible

Source: Finnish Police (Poliisi) — Submitting Passport Photographs

How to Take a Finland Passport 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 Finland Passport Photos

Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable passport photos

Frequently Asked Questions