North Macedonia Passport Photo Specifications

Detailed North Macedonia Passport Photo Requirements

North Macedonia issues biometric passports (биометриски пасош) compliant with ICAO 9303 standards. Passport applications are processed by the Ministry of Interior (МВР / MVR) at regional offices or at North Macedonian embassies and consulates abroad. Below is a comprehensive guide to ensure your photo is accepted.

Photo Basics

• Your photo must be in full 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 digital alteration — do not retouch or digitally alter your appearance
• Must reflect your current appearance
• Printed on matte photo paper
• No ink marks, creases, or damage on the printed photo

Size and Dimensions

• Photo size: exactly 35 × 45 mm (3.5 × 4.5 cm)
• Your head should occupy 70–80% of the photo
• Head height: 28–35 mm from chin to crown of head (including hair)
• Face width: 20–25 mm across the cheekbones
• Printed on matte photo 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
• At least one ear must be visible in the photo
• Your nose must be centered on the vertical midline of the photo
• Ensure your face is fully visible from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead
• Shoulders should be squared and visible in the photo

Background

• Use a plain white background
• No patterns, textures, or objects visible behind you
• No shadows on your face or behind your head
• Sufficient contrast between your face and the background
• Even lighting across the entire photo

Glasses

Glasses are permitted but strongly discouraged. If you choose to wear them, the lenses must be completely clear with no glare, no tint, and no reflection. Frames must not cover any part of your eyes or eyebrows. Sunglasses are strictly prohibited.

Head Coverings and Hats

• No hats or head coverings are permitted, unless worn for religious purposes
• If worn for religious reasons, your full face must still be clearly visible from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead
• The head covering must not cast shadows on your face
• No headphones, earbuds, or wireless hands-free devices

Clothing

• Dark clothing is recommended to contrast with the white background
• Do not wear uniforms
• Avoid wearing white or very light-colored tops that may blend with the white background

Children and Baby Photos

• The child must be the only person in the photo — no parent's hands or arms visible
• The child's eyes must be open and visible
• No toys, pacifiers, or other objects visible in the photo
• A plain white background is required — a sheet may be used for babies
• The photo must show the child's full face from chin to top of head
• Minors require 2 passport photos for their application

How to Take a North Macedonia Passport Photo at Home

You don't need a professional studio. Follow these simple steps to take a compliant North Macedonia passport photo at home using your smartphone.

1

Use a Smartphone or Digital Camera

Any modern smartphone camera (iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, etc.) is more than capable of taking a passport-quality photo. Make sure the lens is clean and the camera is set to the highest resolution.

Place your phone on a tripod or ask someone to take the photo for you. Selfies tend to have the wrong angle and distortion.

2

Find Good Lighting

Stand facing a window with natural daylight for the best even lighting. Avoid direct sunlight, which creates harsh shadows. If using indoor lighting, use multiple light sources from different angles to eliminate shadows.

Tip: Don't worry if your background isn't perfectly white. Our AI tool will automatically remove and replace the background with the required white color.

3

Dress Appropriately

Wear dark clothing to contrast with the white background. Avoid uniforms and white tops that blend with the background. Make sure your hair does not cover your eyes or cast shadows on your face.

4

Pose Correctly

Stand about 4 feet (1.2 meters) in front of the camera with your head facing directly forward. Keep your shoulders relaxed and your head level — not tilted. Ensure your entire face from chin to forehead is visible, at least one ear is visible, and your nose is centered on the vertical midline.

5

Maintain a Neutral Expression

Keep your face relaxed with a neutral expression. Both eyes must be open and your mouth closed. No smiling, squinting, or frowning.

Good and Bad Examples of North Macedonia Passport Photos

Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable passport photos

Frequently Asked Questions