Document photo requirements by country

Exact photo requirements for passports, visas and residence permits — by country and document, checked against official sources.

Latest news 87

Country updateEstonia
Estonia e-Residency Photo Requirements 2026: 1300x1600 px Size & PBGB RulesThe Estonian Police and Border Guard Board (PBGB) has set strict technical requirements for digital photos to obtain e-Residency status. In 2026, applicants must upload original digital photos measuring at least 1300x1600 pixels with a file size between 1 MB and 5 MB. The use of scanned images, screenshots, or edited files is strictly prohibited and leads to delays in application processing.
·e-Residency (Уряд Естонії)·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updateQatar
Qatar Hayya Visa Photo Requirements 2026: Official Size 30x40 mm and Upload RulesThe official Hayya portal of the State of Qatar sets strict requirements for digital photos for e-visa applications. Applicants must provide a color photo measuring 30x40 mm (minimum 720 pixels) in JPEG or JPG format, up to 2 MB in size. The photo must be taken against a plain white or light gray background no earlier than 12 months before applying. The face must occupy 70-80% of the frame area, and the facial expression must be neutral. Failure to meet these standards may result in processing delays or rejection of the visa application.
·Офіційний портал Hayya (Держава Катар)
Country updateCambodia
Cambodia e-Visa Photo 2026: Size (4x6 cm), Background, and Upload RequirementsThe Cambodian government strictly checks digital photos when submitting electronic visa (e-Visa) applications. In 2026, applicants must upload a color photo measuring 4x6 cm (or 35x45 mm) on a white background in JPEG format. Failure to comply with lighting, background, or file format requirements is the most common cause of visa issuance delays.
·Офіційний портал e-Visa Камбоджі
Country updateFinland
Finland Passport, Visa and Residence Permit (oleskelulupa) Photo 2026: 36x47 mm Size and kuvatunnus RequirementsA detailed overview of the current requirements for Finnish document photos in 2026. Learn how the kuvatunnus electronic code system works, the exact face sizes required by the police (32–36 mm), and how to correctly submit a photo for a residence permit (oleskelulupa) via the Enter Finland portal.
·Поліція Фінляндії (Poliisi)·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updateLithuania
Lithuania Visa, Residence Permit (MIGRIS) and Passport Photo 2026: Requirements and SizeA detailed overview of the official requirements of the Migration Department of Lithuania for photos for national visas, temporary residence permits (via the MIGRIS system), and passports in 2026. The article explains the exact sizes, facial proportions, background, and print quality requirements, and clarifies when photographing takes place on-site and when paper photos must be brought (e.g., for children under 2 years old).
·Департамент міграції при МВС Литви·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updateEu
EU Allows Temporary Suspension of Biometrics Collection at Borders Due to Summer QueuesIn response to aviation industry complaints about multi-hour queues, the European Commission confirmed that national border agencies have the right to temporarily suspend the collection of biometric data (fingerprints and facial photos) for the new Entry/Exit System (EES). This rule will apply during peak loads in the summer season until early September 2026. The changes affect travelers from non-EU countries, including Ukrainians traveling visa-free. At the same time, Ukrainians with temporary protection status are completely exempt from EES registration.
·European Commission (via Anadolu Agency)
Country updateHong Kong
Hong Kong Visa and Passport Photo 2026: Non-Standard 40x50 mm Size and Digital Upload RequirementsThe Hong Kong Immigration Department sets strict requirements for visa and passport photos, which differ from standard European norms. Instead of the usual 35x45 mm format, applicants must provide a 40x50 mm photo. Clear technical parameters apply for online submission: JPEG format, file size up to 5 MB, and a resolution of at least 1200x1600 pixels. Failure to comply with these rules is one of the most common reasons for delays in document processing.
·Імміграційний департамент Гонконгу
Country updateCyprus
Cyprus Visa and Pink Slip Photo 2026: 35x45 mm Size and Background RequirementsA detailed overview of the photo requirements for obtaining a Cyprus national visa and temporary residence permit (Pink Slip) in 2026. It covers technical parameters (35x45 mm size, 70-80% face coverage), rules regarding the background, glasses, and headwear, as well as the procedure for submitting biometric data at the Civil Registry and Migration Department (CRMD).
·Cyprus Register·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updateAlbania
Albania e-Visa Photo 2026: Non-Standard 47x36 mm Size and Portal RequirementsThe Albanian government portal e-visa.al has strict technical requirements for applicant photos. Unlike the standard Schengen format, an Albanian e-Visa requires a 47x36 mm photo. Digitally, this corresponds to 555x425 pixels. Failure to comply with these proportions or background requirements may result in a delay or rejection of the visa application.
·Офіційний портал e-Visa Албанії
Country updateTaiwan
Taiwan Visa and eVisa Photo 2026: BOCA Requirements (35x45 mm & 531x413 px)The Bureau of Consular Affairs of Taiwan (BOCA) has updated and detailed the photo requirements for obtaining visas and electronic visas (eVisa). For paper submission, a standard size of 35x45 mm is required, while for online upload, a digital file in JPG/JPEG format with a minimum resolution of 413x531 pixels must be provided. The photo must be taken against a pure white background within the last 6 months, with a neutral facial expression and without thick-framed glasses.
·Bureau of Consular Affairs (BOCA)
Country updateItaly
Italy Visa, Permesso di Soggiorno & Passport Photo 2026: Requirements (Fototessera 35x45 mm)A detailed overview of the official requirements for photos (fototessera) to obtain an Italian visa, residence permit (permesso di soggiorno), and passport in 2026. Dimensions, background requirements, facial expressions, and the most common applicant mistakes.
·Міністерство закордонних справ Італії (Esteri.it)·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updateSingapore
Singapore Visa and Passport Photo 2026: ICA Requirements, Size (35x45 mm / 400x514 px) and Upload RulesA detailed overview of the current Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) requirements for visa, passport, and other document photos in 2026. Learn about exact sizes (35x45 mm and 400x514 px), acceptable file formats, background, lighting, and glasses rules, as well as a step-by-step guide for successfully uploading your photo online without the risk of rejection.
·Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA)·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updateNew Zealand
New Zealand Visa and NZeTA Photo 2026: Size, Background, and App Selfie RequirementsImmigration New Zealand has strict photo requirements for visa applications and the New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA). In 2026, it is important to consider specific background requirements (which must not be pure white), file sizes depending on the submission method, and clear rules for selfies, which are permitted exclusively in the NZeTA mobile app.
·Immigration New Zealand·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updatePortugal
Portugal Visa and Residence Permit (AIMA) Photo 2026: Requirements and SizeApplying for a Portuguese visa or residence permit through AIMA requires strict adherence to photo standards. In 2026, the European 35x45 mm format (tipo passe) remains the baseline. The face must occupy 70-80% of the frame, the background must be light (white or light gray), and the photo must have been taken within the last 6 months. For a visa, 1-2 photos are usually required, while for an AIMA appointment, you should bring 2 printed photos, especially if applying at the Odivelas or Aveiro branches.
·AIMA (Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo)
Country updateIndonesia
Electronic Visa (e-VoA) Photo for Indonesia 2026: Size and Background RequirementsApplying for an electronic visa on arrival (e-VoA) to Indonesia requires strict adherence to biometric standards for the digital photo. In 2026, the system automatically rejects files that do not meet the minimum resolution of 400x600 pixels, exceed 2 MB in size, or are not taken on a white background. This article compiles the current technical requirements and common mistakes that Ukrainians should avoid when submitting an application.
·Офіційний портал e-Visa Індонезії·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updateEu
EU proposes extending temporary protection to 2028 with restrictions for menOn June 26, 2026, the European Commission officially proposed extending the Temporary Protection Directive for Ukrainians for another year — until March 4, 2028. At the same time, an important exception is proposed: newly arrived military-liable individuals who do not have legal permission to leave Ukraine will no longer receive this status automatically. Those Ukrainians, including men, who have already received temporary protection earlier will retain their status. The proposal still needs final approval by the Council of the EU.
·Міністерство соціальної політики України
Country updateMexico
Mexico Visa Photo Requirements 2026: Official Size (35x45 mm), Background, and RulesApplying for a Mexican visa requires strict adherence to photo guidelines. While 35x45 mm is the standard international size often used, the Mexican Secretariat of Foreign Affairs (SRE) also specifies dimensions between 32x26 mm and 39x31 mm depending on the consulate. Photos must be recent, in color, with a white background, and applicants must not wear glasses or smile.
·Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores (SRE)·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updateAustralia
Australia Visa and Passport Photo 2026: Size, Background, and Digital Upload RequirementsAustralia has strict photo requirements for visa and passport applications. In 2026, there is a strict ban on wearing glasses in photos (even prescription glasses), and clear technical file parameters are set for online submission via ImmiAccount. Failure to comply with these rules is the most common reason for delays in application processing.
·Australian Passport Office·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updateSaudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia eVisa Photo Requirements 2026: 200x200 px and White BackgroundThe government of Saudi Arabia has established strict technical requirements for digital photos for the electronic visa (eVisa) application. To avoid rejection or technical errors during the application process, applicants must upload a photo measuring exactly 200x200 pixels, with a file size between 5 and 100 KB, taken against a plain white background without shadows. The face must occupy 70-80% of the frame, and the facial expression must be neutral.
·Visit Saudi (Офіційний портал)·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updateGermany
Germany: The Bezahlkarte Payment Card for Benefit Recipients — What It Means for Ukrainians in 2026Germany has introduced the Bezahlkarte payment card for recipients of benefits under the Asylum Seekers' Benefits Act (AsylbLG). In 2026 it applies in all states except Berlin, with a cash limit mostly of €50 per month. It does not yet affect Ukrainians with temporary protection — they receive Bürgergeld. But a bill on changing the legal regime (Rechtskreiswechsel) may move those who arrived after 1 April 2025 to AsylbLG and, accordingly, to the Bezahlkarte. The switch was initially planned for 1 July 2026, but as of June 2026 the law has not yet been adopted and is stuck in the Bundesrat, so this date remains uncertain.
·Mediendienst Integration — Wo gilt was bei der Bezahlkarte?·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updatePoland
Poland: residence card applications now online only via MOS (from 2026)Poland has fully moved the process of applying for residence permits (residence cards, karta pobytu) into a digital format. From 27 April 2026, the use of the government MOS portal is mandatory, and paper applications are no longer considered. In addition, from 4 May 2026, Ukrainian citizens with UKR status gained the ability to file online applications for a special 3-year CUKR card.
·Urząd do Spraw Cudzoziemców (UdSC)·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updateGermany
Germany: Newly Arrived Ukrainians Move from Bürgergeld to Asylum Seekers' Benefits — What the Rechtskreiswechsel ChangesThe German government is preparing the so-called Rechtskreiswechsel: Ukrainians who entered the country after 1 April 2025 are to receive not Bürgergeld (€563 for a single adult), but lower basic benefits under the Asylbewerberleistungsgesetz (€455).
·Bundesregierung — Kabinett beschließt Rechtskreiswechsel·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updateUnited States
USA: U4U status, re-parole and TPS for Ukrainians — what's open, what's closed and when deadlines expireAs of June 2026, USCIS has not accepted new Uniting for Ukraine (U4U) applications since 27 January 2025. Re-parole is processed only through Form I-131 and decided case-by-case based on urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit; file no earlier than 180 days before parole expires. TPS protection and work authorization under TPS Ukraine run until 19 October 2026; the regular re-registration window (17 January – 18 March 2025) is closed, but late filing with evidence of good cause is still possible, and you can apply for TPS for the first time as a late initial filer until 19 October 2026. No new extension has been announced yet.
·USCIS — Uniting for Ukraine / Re-Parole Process·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updateSweden
Sweden: temporary protection for Ukrainians extended to 4 March 2027 — and a new option to change permit from 11 June 2026The Council of the EU extended temporary protection for Ukrainians until 4 March 2027 (the formal decision was adopted on 15 July 2025). In Sweden, from 11 June 2026, holders of a permit under the massflyktsdirektivet can apply for another type of permit (work, study, EU Blue Card, family) without leaving the country. At the same time, those who received a permit on or after 5 September 2025 are usually no longer entered into the population register (folkbokföring).
·Migrationsverket — Protection under the Temporary Protection Directive·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updateGermany
Free integration course in Germany for Ukrainians in 2026: access via contingent from 1 JuneIn February 2026, BAMF suspended voluntary admissions to integration courses under §44 para. 4 AufenthG for everyone not obliged to attend, including Ukrainians. From 1 June 2026, access for Ukrainians with a permit under §24 AufenthG and EU citizens has been restored, but through a contingent system (a limited number of places) tied to the budget. The course consists of 600 hours of language + 100 hours of orientation; the fee is €2.29/hour, but Bürgergeld recipients and low-income earners are fully exempt. Passing the B1 exam and the «Leben in Deutschland» test within 2 years entitles you to a 50% refund of the fee.
·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updateGermany
Recognition of Ukrainian diplomas and qualifications in Germany: what changed in 2026In spring 2026, Germany updated the rules for assessing Ukrainian educational documents: the KMK adopted a new procedure for access to universities for persons under temporary protection (§24), and in North Rhine-Westphalia, school certificates from Ukraine have again been assessed individually since 18 May 2026. At the same time, the recognition of Ukrainians' professional qualifications is breaking records.
·Bezirksregierung Köln — Auslaendische Schulzeugnisse (зміна з 18.05.2026)·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updateNorway
Norway: collective protection extended, but rules tightened for men aged 18–60 from 5 May 2026Norway has extended the temporary collective protection scheme for Ukrainians by another year, but at the same time tightened the criteria: men aged 18–60 who apply on 5 May 2026 or later no longer automatically receive collective protection.
·UDI — Men between the ages of 18 and 60 can no longer be granted temporary collective protection in Norway·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updatePoland
Poland: how to move from temporary protection to the CUKR card and an EU long-term resident permit in 2026From 4 May 2026 Ukrainians with active PESEL UKR status can voluntarily move from temporary protection to a CUKR residence card — a residence permit valid for 3 years. Applications are filed only electronically through the MOS portal until 4 March 2027. Time held under the CUKR card counts toward the 5 years required for an EU long-term resident permit.
·Zielona Linia (gov.pl) — Karta pobytu CUKR. Można już składać wnioski·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updateFrance
France: Temporary Protection for Ukrainians Extended to 4 March 2027 — What Changed with the APS and the €100 TaxThe Council of the EU extended temporary protection (protection temporaire) for displaced persons from Ukraine by another year — through 4 March 2027 inclusive. In France protection is confirmed by a temporary residence permit, the APS, which is issued for 6 months and renewed online. From 1 May 2026 the APS for beneficiaries of temporary protection is subject to a €100 tax — but only starting from the second renewal (the first two issuances are free of charge).
·EUR-Lex — Council Implementing Decision (EU) 2025/1460·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updateCzech Republic
Czech Republic: extension of temporary protection until 31 March 2027 and the path to special long-term residenceThe Czech Republic is extending temporary protection for Ukrainians until 31 March 2027: online registration runs until 15 March 2026, and the new visa sticker must be obtained by 30 September 2026.
·Ministerstvo vnitra ČR — Информаційний портал для іноземців (ipc.gov.cz)·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updateCyprus
Cyprus extends temporary protection for Ukrainians until 4 March 2027: how the residence permit is renewedCyprus has automatically extended temporary protection status for Ukrainians for another year — until 4 March 2027. Current beneficiaries do not need to file a new application with the Asylum Service or apply for a new biometric permit; the extension applies automatically. Keep your registered address of residence up to date so you do not miss correspondence about the document.
·UNHCR Cyprus — Persons Arriving from Ukraine·Make the photo — €4.99 →
IndustryEU
Healthcare in the EU under temporary protection: how coverage works in 2026Temporary protection for Ukrainians in the EU has been extended until 4 March 2027. It continues to guarantee access to the healthcare system of the country of residence after registration. We break down how coverage works, what the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) provides, and why in some countries, including Poland, part of non-working adults are moved to their own insurance from 5 March 2026.
·European Commission — Fleeing Ukraine: Healthcare·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updateLuxembourg
Luxembourg extends temporary protection for Ukrainians until 4 March 2027: how to renew the biometric cardThe EU has extended temporary protection for Ukrainians until 4 March 2027. In Luxembourg, biometric cards valid until 4 March 2026 must be replaced with new ones — without this you lose the right to residence, work and material assistance. Letters with instructions were sent in batches from 28 November 2025 to 6 February 2026. If you have no letter, write to immigration.desk@mai.etat.lu or immigration.asile@mai.etat.lu.
·Guichet.lu — Demander une protection temporaire (Люксембург)·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updateUkraine
Ukrainian Driving Licence in the EU in 2026: Exchange, Translation and the International Permit under Temporary ProtectionThe EU Council extended temporary protection for Ukrainians until 4 March 2027 (the Council's formal decision was on 15 July 2025). Because Regulation (EU) 2022/1280 is tied to the protection period, Ukrainian driving licences are recognised in all EU countries without exchange, notarised translation or an international driving permit — for the entire duration of temporary protection.
·EUR-Lex — Регламент (ЄС) 2022/1280
Industry
Recognition of Ukrainian diplomas in the EU in 2026: the European Qualifications Passport and the route via ENIC-NARICUkrainians under temporary protection in the EU (extended until 4 March 2027 by Council Implementing Decision (EU) 2025/1460 of 15 July 2025) can confirm their academic and professional qualifications even without the original documents. Three instruments are available: the Council of Europe's European Qualifications Passport for Refugees (EQPR) — a free qualification assessment valid for 5 years and accepted in many European countries; the national centres of the ENIC-NARIC network, which provide formal recognition under the Lisbon Convention; and European Commission Recommendation (EU) 2022/554 on accelerated recognition.
·EUR-Lex — Recognition of qualifications for Ukrainian refugees (Commission Recommendation (EU) 2022/554)·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updateUkraine
Digital apostille and consular services for Ukrainians abroad: what changed in 2026From 2 March 2026 the Ministry of Justice of Ukraine launched an updated Electronic Apostille Register — a modernisation of the e-APP register that has been operating since 2015. The apostille now has QR codes and an electronic version in an ASiC-E container with a qualified electronic signature, and you can verify its authenticity online at apostille.minjust.gov.ua. The service can be obtained without physical presence in Ukraine, which reduces the burden on consulates. In parallel, the Diia and e-Consul online services are being developed for registering civil acts and obtaining documents abroad.
·Міністерство юстиції України — В Україні запрацював оновлений Електронний реєстр апостилів
Country updateCroatia
Croatia: temporary protection for Ukrainians extended until 4 March 2027 — how to validate your cardCroatia has extended temporary protection for displaced persons from Ukraine until 4 March 2027, following the EU decision. The status itself is extended automatically, but to have the new term stamped in your foreigner's card under temporary protection, you must come in person to the relevant police administration or station at your place of residence. The organisational period for visits ran from 26 February to 30 May 2026; those who applied after this date do not lose their status and can do the ovjera later.
·Hrvatska za Ukrajinu — Status privremene zaštite (урядовий портал Хорватії)·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updateBulgaria
Bulgaria: temporary protection for Ukrainians extended until 4 March 2027 — how to re-register your card and changes in housingBulgaria has extended temporary protection for Ukrainian citizens until 4 March 2027 on the basis of Council Decision (EU) 2025/1460. Existing registration cards were valid until 30 April 2026 — by that date you had to apply for a new card. Those who re-registered on time have had their status automatically extended until 4 March 2027. Those who missed the date may, for valid reasons, re-register even now, but only at the territorial centres of the State Agency for Refugees (the option with the Ministry of Interior directorates is unavailable after 30 April). Separately, an updated Humanitarian Support Programme applies: free accommodation is limited to 60 days for most, while the entire protection period covers accommodation only for risk groups.
·UNHCR Bulgaria — TP extended until 4 March 2027·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updateGermany
Germany: §24 residence permit for Ukrainians is automatically valid until 4 March 2027 — no new eAT or Fiktionsbescheinigung issuedFrom 1 February 2026, valid residence permits under §24 AufenthG for Ukrainians in Germany are automatically extended until 4 March 2027 — without an application, a visit to the authority and without the issuance of a new electronic permit (eAT).
·Gesetze im Internet — UkraineAufenthFGV (§24 Fortgeltung)·Make the photo — €4.99 →
IndustrySchengen
Digital Schengen Visa: The EU Launches the EU VAP Platform — What Will Change for ApplicantsThe EU is creating a single online platform, the EU Visa Application Platform (EU VAP), for submitting Schengen visa applications. The paper visa sticker will be replaced by a digital visa in the form of a cryptographically signed 2D barcode. In-person attendance at the consulate will remain mandatory only for those applying for the first time, those who have obtained a new passport, or those whose biometric data has expired. The rules have already been adopted (Regulation (EU) 2023/2667), the platform is being developed by the eu-LISA agency, and the exact launch date will be set by a separate Commission decision; the transition period for Member States is 7 years from the date the platform begins operating.
·EUR-Lex — Регламент (ЄС) 2023/2667 про цифровізацію візової процедури·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updateMoldova
Moldova extends temporary protection for Ukrainians until 1 March 2027By a decision of 28 January 2026, the government of Moldova extended temporary protection for displaced persons from Ukraine until 1 March 2027, aligning the term with the EU decision. The main change: status extension no longer happens automatically — each beneficiary had to submit a free online application on the protectietemporara.gov.md platform between 1 February and 30 April 2026. Missing the deadline leads to automatic termination of the status, but a new application for temporary protection can still be submitted afterwards.
·Уряд Республіки Молдова (gov.md)·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country update
Free EU roaming and access to a bank account for Ukrainians under temporary protection: what applies in 2026From 1 January 2026 Ukraine officially joined the "Roam Like at Home" zone: Ukrainians with a Ukrainian number use calls, SMS and mobile internet in all 27 EU countries at no extra charge, as at home. In parallel, temporary protection has been extended until 4 March 2027, and the right to open a basic bank account is guaranteed by an EU directive to everyone legally residing in the Union.
·Європейська комісія (Shaping Europe's digital future) — Roaming now fully operational in Ukraine
Country updateUkraine
Ukrainian Pension Abroad in 2026: How to Complete Physical Identification via Diia and Not Lose PaymentsUkrainians who receive a pension or insurance payments and stay abroad for more than 183 days a year must undergo physical identification every year by 31 December. Without it, the Pension Fund stops payments from 1 January. The procedure can be completed online via Diia.Signature, in a video conference with a PFU employee, at an authorized bank, or through a consulate.
·Пенсійний фонд України — Фізична ідентифікація пенсіонерів за кордоном: алгоритм дій
Country updateUkraine
Biometric passport at a consulate 2026: how the photo works and when you must bring oneWhen applying for a Ukrainian biometric passport at a consulate, an adult and a child aged 12 or older are photographed on site by a staff member — you do not need to bring a separate photo print. Your own 10×15 cm photo is required only for children under 12 who are absent during submission, and for persons who cannot move. We explain how this works in 2026 and the requirements a "spare" photo must meet.
·Гід онлайн Дія — Паспорт громадянина України для виїзду за кордон
Country updateUkraine
Military registration for men abroad and consular services: what you need to knowMale citizens of Ukraine aged 18–60 who are abroad must submit an electronic military registration document (e-MRD) for most consular services, and at the end of 2025 the state introduced automatic registration from the age of 18 (CMU Resolution No. 1632 of 05.12.2025).
·Міністерство закордонних справ України — поширені питання щодо консульських послуг
Country updateGermany
Germany: how to switch from §24 to a work, study or skilled-worker permit (Spurwechsel)Ukrainians in Germany can change a permit under §24 AufenthG (temporary protection) to a work, study or skilled-worker permit without leaving the country: §39 sentence 1 no. 1 AufenthV allows the switch (Spurwechsel) to be processed inside the country without a visa procedure abroad. §24 itself has been automatically extended until 4 March 2027 for permits valid as of 1 February 2026, so changing status immediately is not mandatory. Important: for some permits (§18a, §18b, §16a, §19c) the new permit can be obtained in parallel with §24, with §24 acting as a «safety net»; whereas for permits blocked by §19f AufenthG (§16b, §18g Blue Card and others), §24 must end first — and then a return to temporary protection is no longer possible.
·UkraineAufenthFGV — офіційний текст закону (gesetze-im-internet.de)·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country update
What Will Happen to Ukrainians' Status in the EU After Temporary Protection: The EU Council Adopts a Recommendation on the TransitionOn 16 September 2025, the EU Council adopted Recommendation (2025/5129) on a coordinated transition of Ukrainians out of temporary protection status. Temporary protection itself has been extended until 4 March 2027. The Recommendation advises Member States to give people the opportunity to switch in advance to national residence permits (work, study, family) or to statuses under EU directives (Blue Card, single permit, students/researchers). Important: contrary to the discussions, the final document did NOT introduce automatic access to "EU long-term resident" status and did NOT provide for counting the years of temporary protection towards the 5-year period.
·EUR-Lex — Council Recommendation (EU) 2025/5129 of 16 September 2025
Country updateLithuania
Temporary protection in the Baltic states extended to 4 March 2027: what differs in Lithuania, Latvia and EstoniaLithuania, Latvia and Estonia have extended temporary protection for Ukrainians until 4 March 2027 following the Council of the EU decision, but the renewal rules and language requirements in the three countries differ substantially.
·Рада ЄС (Consilium) — пресреліз про продовження тимчасового захисту
Industry
Visa-free travel for Ukrainians in 2026: how the 90/180 rule works and why temporary protection does not "burn" your daysUkrainian citizens with a biometric passport may stay in Schengen for up to 90 days within any 180 without a visa. Time spent under temporary protection or a national residence permit is NOT counted toward this limit. In 2026 EES and ETIAS are being added, but the 90/180 rule itself does not change.
·European Commission — Short-stay calculator (правило 90/180)·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updateHungary
Temporary protection in Hungary in 2026: status extended to March 2027, but housing — only for 'war' oblastsTemporary protection for Ukrainians in Hungary is valid until 4 March 2027 for all categories regardless of oblast of origin. Separately, from 21 August 2024, government decree 134/2024 narrowed access to state housing: free accommodation is retained only for those who come from oblasts that Hungary considers directly affected by the war. The western oblasts, in particular Zakarpattia, are not included in this list.
·Council of the EU — EU member states agree to extend temporary protection for refugees from Ukraine (13 June 2025)·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updateIceland
Iceland: collective protection for Ukrainians extended to 2 March 2027 — permits renewed automaticallyIceland has extended collective protection for Ukrainians to 2 March 2027. For those legally residing in the country, the residence permit is renewed automatically for a year, with no new photo session; you are notified by SMS when a new card is issued. Eligible for protection are citizens of Ukraine who resided in Ukraine as of 24 February 2022, persons with international/subsidiary protection or a humanitarian permit in Ukraine on that date, and their family members. Outside the automatic procedure are persons with dual citizenship, those who resided in a Dublin-cooperation country before 24.02.2022, and those who can safely stay in or travel to another state — their cases are assessed separately. Being abroad for more than 3 consecutive months may lead to revocation of the permit.
·EUAA DIP — Iceland extends temporary collective protection for Ukrainians until 2027

Most popular

Photo standardsGermany
Photos for a German National Visa D, Blue Card and Residence Permit: 2026 RequirementsFor a national visa D, a Blue Card and a residence permit in Germany you need a biometric photo measuring 35×45 mm with a light background, a neutral expression and no glasses; the head (from chin to crown) is 32–36 mm, the face takes up 70–80% of the frame height, and the photo must be taken no more than 6 months ago.
Verified 2026·BMI — Fotomustertafel (офіційні вимоги до біометричного фото)·Make the photo — €4.99 →

Europe 24

Country updateCzech Republic
Czech Republic: from temporary protection to the 5-year «zvláštní dlouhodobý pobyt» — who qualifies, conditions and steps in 2026Holders of temporary protection in the Czech Republic can switch to special long-term residence (zvláštní dlouhodobý pobyt) for 5 years — with free access to the labour market and the prospect of permanent residence. We break down the 2026 conditions: 2 years of continuous temporary protection, income of at least 440,000 Kč, no humanitarian benefits and the application steps.
Verified 2026·Інформаційний портал для іноземців (IPC), Чехія·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updateUnited Kingdom
eVisa in the United Kingdom: how a Ukrainian can replace a BRP with online statusPhysical BRP cards in the United Kingdom have been replaced by a digital eVisa. Most BRPs had a printed expiry of 31 December 2024, although the leave to remain itself lasts longer. We explain how a Ukrainian can create a UKVI account, link the eVisa, what can still be done with an expired BRP until 31 December 2026, and why from 2 June 2025 an eVisa is required to enter the country.
Verified 2026·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updateUnited Kingdom
Homes for Ukraine in 2026: the £350 sponsor payment, moving to a new host and council supportAs of 2026, the Homes for Ukraine sponsor 'thank you' payment is a fixed £350 per month (the higher £500 tier was abolished from 1 April 2025). The payment is not made if the sponsor is a close relative or charges rent; it is tax-free and does not affect benefits. Under the UPE scheme payments continue for up to 18 months; when the permission changes, the sponsor reapplies to the council. The minimum hosting period is 6 months. When the placement ends, the guest finds a new sponsor through the council, which carries out DBS and accommodation checks before the move.
Verified 2026·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updatePoland
Nostrification of a Ukrainian diploma in Poland 2026: when it is needed, the procedure, the price, the concessionsA step-by-step guide to nostrification of a Ukrainian diploma in Poland in 2026: when it is needed and when the diploma is recognised automatically, how to submit an application to a university, which documents to prepare, how much it costs, how to obtain funding from the Funduszu Pracy and what concessions apply to persons under temporary protection without an original diploma.
Verified 2026
Photo standardsNetherlands
Photo for a Netherlands residence permit (verblijfsvergunning), MVV and passport in 2026: IND requirements for UkrainiansA photo for a Netherlands residence permit, MVV visa and passport must be colour, 35×45 mm, with the head (from chin to crown) measuring 26–30 mm for people aged 11 and over, a light grey/light blue/white background, no glasses, a neutral expression, and no older than 6 months.
Verified 2026·Government.nl — Requirements for ID photos·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Photo standardsNorway
Photo for a residence permit and visa to Norway for Ukrainians: UDI requirements 2026 (collective protection)Norway (UDI) applies to the photo for a visa, residence permit and travel documents the same requirements as for the passport photo: face frontal, neutral expression, evenly lit background, no glasses or headwear, the head occupying about 70% of the frame.
Verified 2026·UDI — Photo/passport photo (вимоги до фото, англ.)·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Photo standardsGermany
Photos for a German National Visa D, Blue Card and Residence Permit: 2026 RequirementsFor a national visa D, a Blue Card and a residence permit in Germany you need a biometric photo measuring 35×45 mm with a light background, a neutral expression and no glasses; the head (from chin to crown) is 32–36 mm, the face takes up 70–80% of the frame height, and the photo must be taken no more than 6 months ago.
Verified 2026·BMI — Fotomustertafel (офіційні вимоги до біометричного фото)·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updateSpain
Spain 2026: switching from temporary protection to arraigo (work and residence permit) — requirements, deadlines, documentsDisposición adicional decimonovena of the Aliens Regulation (as amended by RD 316/2026, in force from 16 April 2026) allows persons with temporary protection from Ukraine to apply for arraigo and other permits without leaving Spain. The switch is not automatic: you must meet the requirements of the specific modality. This guide breaks down the three types of arraigo (social, sociolaboral, socioformativo): each requires 2 years of continuous residence in Spain, no criminal record, form EX-10, the fee under model 790 code 052, a decision within 3 months, and a 1-year permit with the right to work.
Verified 2026·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updateGermany
Wohngeld for Ukrainians in Germany 2026: who is eligible, how much and how to apply at the WohngeldstelleWohngeld is a state housing supplement for those whose income is above social-assistance level but not enough for the rent. Ukrainians with a §24 AufenthG permit are entitled to Wohngeld (§3 WoGG) if they do NOT receive Bürgergeld, Sozialhilfe, Grundsicherung, AsylbLG benefits or BAföG (these cannot be combined). After the Wohngeld-Plus reform, BMWSB cites an average payment for previous recipients of ~370 €/month (+~190 €); according to Destatis statistics the actual average at the end of 2024 is about 287 €/month. The application is submitted to the local Wohngeldstelle, payment starts from the 1st of the month of application, the decision takes about 8 weeks, the approval is usually for 12 months.
Verified 2026·BMWSB — Wohngeld-Plus (офіційно)·Make the photo — €4.99 →

Asia 6

Middle East & Africa 4

CIS & Caucasus 14

Photo standardsAzerbaijan
Azerbaijan e-Visa Photo 2026: Size, Background, ASAN RequirementsFor an Azerbaijan e-Visa (official portal evisa.gov.az, ASAN Visa system), upload a digital photo of 30×40 mm (3×4 cm) with a resolution of at least 354×472 px, a quality over 300 dpi, in JPEG or PNG format, on a white non-reflective background, without glasses and no older than 6 months.
Verified 2026·MFA Azerbaijan — офіційні вимоги до фото (3×4 см, 354×472 px, >300 dpi)·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updateUkraine
Diia.Signature Abroad in 2026: What Is Legally Valid in the EU, How to Sign, Where the Limits AreDiia.Signature works from a smartphone while abroad: in Ukraine it is a qualified electronic signature (QES), equal to a handwritten one. In the EU, via Diia.Signature-EU (Ukraine is the first third country on the EU Trusted List), it operates as an advanced signature (AdES) — legally binding and accepted in EU courts, but without the QES presumption of authenticity. The exception is Latvia, where full mutual recognition has been in force since January 2026. Important: from 2026, activating Diia.Signature requires a smartphone with NFC and a biometric document.
Verified 2026·Дія — Дія.Підпис відповідає вимогам ЄС (офіційне оголошення)·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updateUkraine
ID card abroad in 2026: where to obtain a Ukrainian citizen's passport and what photo you needA domestic Ukrainian citizen's passport in the form of an ID card is issued abroad only at overseas branches of SE "Document", not at a consulate or embassy. From the age of 14 you can obtain your first ID card abroad; since 25 December 2025, simultaneous issuance of an ID card and an international passport applies under a single queue and a single administrative fee. The biometric photo is taken on site at the centre — you do not need to bring printed photographs.
Verified 2026·ДМС України — Порядок одночасного оформлення ID-картки та закордонного паспорта (з 25.12.2025)
Photo standardsKazakhstan
Kazakhstan Visa, Passport and Residence Permit Photo: Size and Requirements 2026A photo for a Kazakhstan visa, passport or residence permit must be 35×45 mm (3.5×4.5 cm); for digital submission — 413×531 pixels, up to 30 KB, on a light plain background, strictly full face, with a neutral expression and taken no earlier than 6 months ago.
Verified 2026·Електронний уряд РК (egov.kz) — вимоги до фотографій при оформленні документів·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updateUkraine
Marriage abroad and its recognition in Ukraine (2026): consular marriage vs local + apostilleA Ukrainian consulate registers a marriage only between two Ukrainian citizens lawfully residing abroad. A marriage to a foreigner is registered under the local law of the country. Any marriage abroad is valid in Ukraine under Art. 58 of the Law "On Private International Law" without re-registration; to use the certificate you need an apostille (or consular legalisation) and a notarised translation into Ukrainian.
Verified 2026
Country updateUkraine
Power of Attorney Through a Ukrainian Consulate in 2026: Documents, Price, Validity, Online via "e-Consul"A step-by-step guide to issuing a power of attorney and other notarial acts at a Ukrainian consulate in 2026: the exact consular fee, the list of documents, registration in the URPA, online filing via "e-Consul" and the document's validity in Ukraine.
Verified 2026·Посольство України у Великій Британії — Тарифи консульського збору (нотаріальні дії)
Country updateUkraine
Recognition of a Ukrainian school certificate for university admission in the EU 2026: ENIC-NARIC, apostille, translation — a step-by-step guideA step-by-step guide to the recognition of a Ukrainian certificate of complete general secondary education for university admission in the EU in 2026: when a MON apostille is needed, the rates effective from May 2025, verification through ENIC-NARIC and an EDEBO extract, translation requirements. Separately — the specifics of Poland (no apostille or nostrification needed) and Germany (the certificate alone is not enough).
Verified 2026
Country updateUkraine
Replacing a Ukrainian driving licence abroad in 2026: online via Diia and delivery of the card abroadA Ukrainian driving licence can be ordered online in case of loss, damage, expiry or change of details — without exams and without a new photo (it is taken from the old one in the MIA register, if the licence was issued after 01.01.2013). For those abroad: in the Diia app card delivery works only within Ukraine, but through the Electronic Driver's Cabinet you can order international card delivery to 27 European countries (Poland, Germany, Czechia, Italy and others; the list is expanding). An alternative is to get an e-licence in Diia right away. Consulates do not issue new licences — only a certificate of validity for exchange into a local licence.
Verified 2026·Дія Гід — Обмін посвідчення водія без складання іспитів
Country updateUkraine
RNOKPP (tax ID) abroad: "e-Konsul", Diia, the Electronic Cabinet and the consulate — a step-by-step guideUkrainian citizens abroad can obtain an RNOKPP (tax ID) in several ways: remotely via "e-Konsul" (so far only for children under 18, launched 14.05.2026), via a taxpayer e-Card in "Diia" (from 14.05.2026, from age 14, signed with Diia.Signature), in person or by post via the consulate, or online via the STS Electronic Cabinet (a QES/BankID is required). Form 1DR is for first registration; processing takes 3 working days; the STS document is issued free of charge. Foreign documents require an apostille and a certified translation into Ukrainian.
Verified 2026

Americas 2

General guides & document types 43

Photo standards
AI, deepfakes and face morphing in document photos 2026Authorities and ICAO are increasingly worried about face morphing — blending two people into one image so both could pass as the passport holder. That is why many countries no longer accept a photo you bring and instead capture it live at the office or require a strictly unedited photo. This guide explains how fakes are detected and why an honest applicant only needs to submit a genuine, recent photo.
Verified 2026·ICAO Doc 9303 — Machine Readable Travel Documents·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Photo standards
Can You Use a Selfie for a Document Photo in 2026?A selfie seems like a fast way to get a document photo, but it usually fails passport and visa requirements. The front camera has lower resolution, and an arm's-length shot is too close, distorting facial proportions in a way biometric checks reject. This guide explains why a selfie fails and shows how to self-shoot to spec — using the rear camera, a tripod or a helper, from the correct distance.
Verified 2026·U.S. Department of State — Passport Photos ("No selfies")·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Photo standards
Document Photo: Online vs Booth vs Studio 2026 GuideThere are four main ways to get a document photo: an online tool, a photo booth, a studio with a photographer, or a phone app. They differ in cost, time, quality and convenience. This guide compares them honestly: an online tool is usually the cheapest and fastest, a booth is convenient on the spot, a studio gives the best quality, and apps vary. No method guarantees acceptance — the photo must meet your country's requirements either way. The prices below are approximate and vary by country.
Verified 2026·Post Office (UK) — Passport photos & digital check and send·Make the photo — €4.99 →
IndustryEU
Does time under temporary protection in the EU count towards permanent residence? 2026 rules and what to do nowUnder the current EU Directive 2003/109/EC, years under temporary protection are NOT automatically counted towards the 5 years required for EU long-term resident status. Temporary protection has been extended until 4 March 2027. To preserve the path to permanent residence, you should switch in good time to a national permit (work, study, family) or an EU status — some countries already count previous years.
Verified 2026·EUR-Lex — Council Directive 2003/109/EC concerning the status of third-country nationals who are long-term residents·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Photo standards
Eyes in Document Photos 2026: Open and Clearly VisibleThe eyes are not just a portrait detail but a measured biometric landmark: recognition systems locate the eyes in the frame and expect them to be open, level and clearly visible. Because of this, most eye-related rejections are technical: a squint, a strand of hair, glare on glasses, or red-eye from a direct flash. In this guide we explain exactly how the eyes should look in a 2026 document photo, why it matters for biometrics, and how to avoid the common mistakes when you shoot.
Verified 2026·ICAO Doc 9303 — Machine Readable Travel Documents·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Photo standards
Face Recognition at the Border: E-Gates and Photos 2026A modern passport carries a chip built to the ICAO Doc 9303 standard, holding your photo. At an automated gate (e-gate) a camera photographs you and compares your live face to the chip photo using 1:1 matching, measuring face geometry. That is why the "boring" photo rules exist: they make the image reliable for a machine. This guide explains the mechanics without alarm.
Verified 2026·ICAO Doc 9303 — Machine Readable Travel Documents·Make the photo — €4.99 →
IndustryEU
Family reunification for Ukrainians under temporary protection in the EU in 2026: who counts as family and how to bring relatives over (DE, PL, CZ)Temporary protection in the EU has been extended until 4 March 2027. Family members under Directive 2001/55/EC are the spouse/partner in a stable relationship, minor unmarried children, and dependent close relatives who lived as one family in Ukraine before 24 February 2022. Reunification is possible only for those who fall under the Directive; registration rules and documents differ in Germany (§24 AufenthG, Ausländerbehörde), Poland (PESEL UKR, new CUKR card from 4 May 2026) and Czechia (KACPU, OAMP MV).
Verified 2026·European Commission — Temporary protection·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Photo standards
File Format and Size for Document Uploads 2026Online portals accept only certain formats (usually PDF, JPG/JPEG, sometimes PNG) and set a maximum file size — often 1, 2 or 5 MB, and sometimes pixel or DPI requirements too. This universal guide explains which format to choose when, and how to shrink a file without losing quality: lower the resolution to what is actually needed, export at a sensible JPG quality, convert a scan to grayscale. That way the file uploads successfully and stays legible.
Verified 2026·GOV.UK Design System — File upload component·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Photo standards
Glasses in Document Photos in 2026: Are They Allowed?The global trend is unambiguous: it is best to take your glasses off for document photos. The US banned them entirely in passport photos from 1 November 2016 (the only exception being a documented medical reason). Where glasses are still allowed, the ICAO standard requires clear lenses with no glare or tint, and frames may not cover the eyes.
Verified 2026·U.S. Department of State — Passport Photos (travel.state.gov)·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Photo standards
Hair, Beard and Makeup in Document Photos 2026For a passport, visa or ID photo there is one simple rule that the US State Department, GOV.UK and the ICAO Doc 9303 standard all agree on: the picture must match your ordinary, current appearance so that both a person and a machine can confidently recognise you. Hair may be worn down or up — what matters is that the full face is visible and casts no shadow. A beard and moustache are allowed if they are your everyday appearance, including a beard worn for religious reasons. Makeup is fine when light and natural; heavy or dramatic makeup that hides or changes your features can cause a rejection.
Verified 2026·U.S. Department of State — Passport Photos·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Photo standards
Head Coverings in Document Photos 2026: The RulesThe general rule for passport, visa or ID photos is simple: head coverings for fashion or convenience are not accepted. At the same time, leading authorities (the US State Department, GOV.UK) and the ICAO Doc 9303 standard make an exception for coverings a person wears daily for religious or medical reasons. A hijab, turban, kippah, religious headscarf and a medical wrap are allowed. The key condition is that the face is fully visible, nothing shadows the features, and a niqab or any veil hiding part of the face is not accepted. Some countries ask for a signed statement explaining the reason.
Verified 2026·U.S. Department of State — Passport Photos·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Photo standards
How Much Does a Passport Photo Cost? 2026 Price GuideWe break down the real price ranges for a passport photo in 2026 by method and country: a studio photographer, a photo booth or pharmacy, an online tool, and printing at home. We show why prices vary so much, give a few approximate example markets, and explain which route is the cheapest yet still reliable for most people.
Verified 2026·Post Office (UK) — passport photo and Digital Check & Send·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Photo standards
How to Take a Document Photo at Home With Your Phone 2026Taking a passport or visa photo at home with your phone is entirely doable if you follow a few simple rules. The essentials are even, soft light with no shadows, a plain light background, the rear camera at eye level, and a neutral pose. This guide is universal: it builds on ICAO, GOV.UK and U.S. State Department requirements, so it works for almost any country. At the end you crop the shot to the required size with an online tool and add no embellishments.
Verified 2026·GOV.UK — Get a passport photo: Digital photos·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Photo standards
Lighting and shadows in document photos: avoid rejection 2026Uneven lighting and shadows are one of the most common reasons document photos are rejected. This universal guide explains what the light should look like under ICAO and national standards, how to avoid shadows on the face and background, why overhead light and direct flash are risky, and how to set up soft, even lighting at home.
Verified 2026·GOV.UK — Passport photos: guidance for photographers·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Industry
Moving between EU countries with temporary protection in 2026: you can hold the status in only one countryTemporary protection in the EU applies in only one Member State at a time. To legally move and obtain protection in another country, you must first cancel/end the status in the previous one — otherwise the shared registration platform will detect double registration. Protection has been extended until 4 March 2027 (Council Implementing Decision (EU) 2025/1460).
Verified 2026·EUR-Lex — Директива Ради 2001/55/EC (Тимчасовий захист)·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Photo standards
Neutral expression for your document photo in 2026Almost every authority in the world relies on the ICAO Doc 9303 standard and requires a neutral facial expression. This is not a photographer's whim: a biometric system measures fixed facial landmarks, and a smile shifts the corners of the mouth, the cheeks and the area around the eyes, so matching against a live face at the border becomes less reliable. This guide explains the 2026 rules and how to get the photo right the first time.
Verified 2026·ICAO Doc 9303 (Machine Readable Travel Documents)·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Photo standards
Online Passport Photos 2026: Are They Accepted?The biggest fear before using an online service is «what if it gets rejected?». The honest answer: the method used to make the photo does not matter. Authorities only look at whether the image meets the specification. More than that, a growing number of official portals now require a digital photo upload. This guide explains what actually causes a rejection, how to stay safe with an online tool, and why a correctly made digital photo is exactly what authorities want.
Verified 2026·U.S. Department of State — Passport Photo Requirements·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Photo standards
Passport vs Visa vs ID Photo in 2026: What's DifferentPassports, visas and national ID cards usually require the same biometric baseline: a neutral expression, a plain light background, and a fully visible face. That makes any "document" photo feel interchangeable. In reality the exact spec differs by document and country — physical size, head proportion, background shade, digital file size, and how recent the photo must be. So a photo made for one document is not automatically accepted for another. In this guide we compare the three types and show what is usually the same versus what varies.
Verified 2026·ICAO Doc 9303 — Machine Readable Travel Documents·Make the photo — €4.99 →
IndustryEU
Recognition of Ukrainian medical diplomas in the EU in 2026: doctor, nurse, pharmacist, dentist — the stepsUkrainian medical diplomas are third-country qualifications, so Directive 2005/36/EC on automatic recognition does NOT apply to them. The right to work as a doctor, nurse, pharmacist or dentist in each EU country is granted under national rules: an equivalence assessment of the diploma, a language exam (usually B2 general + C1 specialist language) and, where required, a knowledge exam. The article explains the real steps using Germany and Poland as examples.
Verified 2026·Єврокомісія — Recognition of professional qualifications: information for third-country nationals·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Photo standards
Retouching and Filters on Document Photos: Allowed in 2026Modern passports and visas undergo automated face matching against your photo. So a document photo must accurately represent how you look right now. In this guide we break down which edits count as technical and safe, and which ones change your appearance and lead to rejection — based on official U.S. and UK requirements and the ICAO standard.
Verified 2026·U.S. Department of State — Passport Photos·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Industry
Social insurance and pensions for Ukrainians working in the EU: where contributions count, A1 and aggregation of periods (2026)How the EU social insurance coordination rules work for Ukrainians: contributions are paid in one country (the country of work), periods are aggregated for the pension, and an A1 confirms the country of insurance. EU coordination applies only where there is an employment link with at least two EU states; pensions Ukraine↔EU are credited by bilateral agreements.
Verified 2026
Photo standards
Strictest vs Most Relaxed Countries for Photos 2026It can feel like every country invents its own rules for passport or visa photos, but almost all of them build on a single biometric standard, ICAO Doc 9303: neutral expression, plain light background, full face visible, recent photo. What makes some countries feel stricter is the detail — the shape and size of the frame, how they treat glasses, and how recent the photo must be. In this 2026 comparison we line up examples of stricter approaches (USA, UK) next to the common "standard" one (most ICAO-aligned countries) and explain what to check before you print.
Verified 2026·U.S. Department of State — Passport Photos·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updateMalta
Temporary protection in Malta for Ukrainians: residence permit, renewal and the right to workA step-by-step guide for Ukrainians in Malta: obtaining temporary protection through IPA, getting a residence card at Identità, renewal, validity until 4 March 2027, and rights to work, healthcare and social benefits. We also explain separately how temporary protection differs from Malta's SRA status.
Verified 2026·UNHCR Malta — Information for people arriving from Ukraine·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Country updateSlovenia
Temporary protection in Slovenia extended until 4 March 2027: card, extension and changes to paymentsTemporary protection for Ukrainians in Slovenia has been automatically extended until 4 March 2027 — no separate application is needed. New cards (izkaznica) are issued free of charge and no longer show an expiry date; old cards dated 4 March 2026 remain valid. Applications are submitted to the upravna enota at the place of residence within 3 days of arrival. A new Temporary Protection Act has applied since 19 July 2025, regulating absence from the country; the cash allowance for private housing after 2 years of status has been reduced by 15%.
Verified 2026·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Photo standards
What happens to your document photo after upload (2026)When you upload a photo of your passport or another document, you are handing over some of the most sensitive personal data about yourself. This guide explains what happens to the file at a reputable service, why a facial image can count as special-category biometric data under GDPR, what risks shady "free" tools and insecure connections create, and how to vet a service before you upload.
Verified 2026·GDPR Art. 9 — Processing of special categories of personal data (EUR-Lex)·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Photo standards
What Is a Biometric Photo and the ICAO Doc 9303 Standard: A Complete Guide (2026)A biometric photo is a facial image taken to the ICAO Doc 9303 standard and suitable for automatic recognition at the border: the head occupies 70-80% of the frame's height, the eyes sit within a defined vertical zone (roughly the middle of the upper half of the image), the facial expression is neutral, the background is a plain light colour, the lighting is even, and the image is sharp and free of obstructions.
Verified 2026·ICAO Doc 9303 Part 9 (офіційний документ)·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Photo standards
What to Wear for a Document Photo in 2026: ColoursA document photo should look like your everyday self, but your clothing also does a technical job: it must clearly separate the outline of your head and shoulders from the background. Because the background is usually white or light grey, a white or pale top blends into it and the outline is lost. This guide explains which colours to choose, what to avoid, and why uniforms and costumes get rejected — based on the standards of GOV.UK, the US State Department and ICAO.
Verified 2026·GOV.UK — Photo standards (accessible)·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Photo standards
Why Document Photos Get Rejected in 2026 — and How to Fix ItMore than half of applications are held up by a non-compliant photo. This checklist gathers the most common reasons document photos get rejected — for passports, visas and ID cards — from shadows and head size to filters and an out-of-date shot, and gives a concrete fix for each. Run your photo through this list before you apply and the risk of rejection drops sharply.
Verified 2026·GOV.UK — Get a passport photo: digital photos·Make the photo — €4.99 →
Try the tool · €4.99 Free preview