Croatia Visa and Residence Permit Photos 2026: MUP Requirements and Non-Standard 30x35 mm Size
In short. A non-standard 30x35 mm photo is required for a biometric residence permit in Croatia, whereas a standard 35x45 mm photo applies for a visa.
- Biometric residence permit (boravišna iskaznica): 30x35 mm photo required.
- Temporary protection card: 2 photos sized 30x35 mm (3x3.5 cm) required.
- Visa to Croatia: standard 35x45 mm photo required.
- Permit cost: €31.85 (regular procedure) or €59.73 (expedited) + €9.29 administrative fee.
What has changed and current requirements
The Ministry of the Interior of Croatia (MUP) clearly distinguishes photo requirements for different types of migration documents. The biggest surprise for foreigners is that the standard "Schengen" 35x45 mm photo is not suitable for issuing a residence permit. For internal documents, such as a biometric residence permit (boravišna iskaznica) and a temporary protection card (iskaznica stranca pod privremenom zaštitom), a non-standard size is required — 30x35 mm.
Submitting a photo of the wrong size is the most common reason MUP inspectors refuse to accept documents at the registration desk.
Comparison table of requirements and fees for 2026
| Document type | Photo size | State fee (EUR) |
|---|---|---|
| Schengen / National visa | 35x45 mm | Depends on visa type |
| Biometric residence permit (Boravišna iskaznica) | 30x35 mm | €31.85 (30 days) / €59.73 (expedited) + €9.29 admin fee |
| Temporary protection card | 30x35 mm (2 pcs required) | Free of charge |
| Travel document (Putni list) | 30x35 mm (2 pcs required) | Depends on the basis |
Who this applies to
These rules apply to all non-EU/EEA citizens (including Ukrainians) who:
- Are applying for or renewing temporary or permanent residence (privremeni/stalni boravak) in Croatia.
- Are registering for temporary protection status.
- Are obtaining special travel documents for foreigners.
What to do now
- Warn the photographer: When visiting a photo studio in Croatia, clearly state that you need a photo for a boravišna iskaznica sized 30x35 mm. Local photographers usually know this standard, but photographers outside Croatia might automatically make it 35x45 mm.
- Prepare payment receipts: The fee for the biometric residence permit (€31.85 or €59.73) and the administrative fee (€9.29) can be paid via internet banking, at the post office, at a FINA branch, or at a bank. Be sure to use the IBAN and model number (HR65) specified on the official MUP website, indicating your OIB (personal identification number).
- Do not use old photos: The photograph must not be older than 6 months and must reflect your current appearance.
Common mistakes
- Using a visa photo for a permit: Attempting to submit a 35x45 mm photo for a biometric card will result in the MUP system being unable to scan it correctly, and you will have to go get your photo taken again.
- Incorrect facial proportions: Even with a size of 30x35 mm, the face must occupy 70-80% of the photograph's area, be centered, with open eyes and a closed mouth.
- Payment without OIB: If you pay the fee through a bank, your OIB must be indicated in the payment reference (poziv na broj) as (7005-485-OIB). If you do not have an OIB yet, the case number (RKP) is indicated.
Rules change frequently — before taking action, always check the current requirements on the official government source provided above.
Related guides
Official sources
Questions
- Will a photo from a Ukrainian passport work for a Croatian residence permit?
- No. A Croatian biometric residence permit (boravišna iskaznica) requires a 30x35 mm photo, whereas standard passport photos are usually 35x45 mm in size.
- How much does it cost to issue a biometric residence permit in 2026?
- Under the regular procedure (up to 30 days), the cost is €31.85, and under the expedited procedure, it is €59.73. An additional administrative fee of €9.29 is paid (except for persons with permanent residence).
- What photo size is required for a temporary protection card?
- To issue a foreigner's card under temporary protection (iskaznica stranca pod privremenom zaštitom), you must provide two color photographs sized 30x35 mm (3x3.5 cm).