Denmark Visa, Passport and Residence Permit Photo 2026: Official 35x45 mm Requirements
In short. In 2026, photos for Danish documents must be 35x45 mm, with a face height of 30-36 mm, on a light background, without shadows, and with a neutral facial expression.
- Photo size: strictly 35x45 mm, face height from chin to crown — 30-36 mm.
- Background: solid light color (e.g., light blue or light gray), without patterns.
- Facial expression: neutral, mouth closed, looking straight into the camera lens.
- Glasses: allowed only with clear lenses without glare, the frame must not cover the eyes.
- Headwear: allowed only for religious reasons (the face must be visible from forehead to chin).
The main rule for 2026: when applying for a visa, residence permit, or passport in Denmark, the photograph must strictly meet biometric standards. The standard size is 35x45 mm, and the photo must be taken no earlier than 6 months before submitting the documents.
What has changed
The photo requirements for official documents in Denmark remain strict and uniform for passports, visas, driver's licenses, and residence permits. They are set and enforced by the Danish National Police (Rigspolitiet). In 2026, biometric control systems have become even more sensitive to image quality, so failing to adhere to millimeter proportions will result in automatic rejection of the application.
| Parameter | Official Denmark Requirement (2026) |
|---|---|
| Photo size | 35 x 45 mm |
| Face size | 30 - 36 mm from chin to crown |
| Background | Solid light color (e.g., light blue or light gray) |
| Facial expression | Neutral, mouth closed, looking straight at the camera |
| Lighting | Even, without shadows on the face or background |
| Glasses | Allowed if there is no glare and the frame does not cover the eyes |
| Headwear | Only for religious reasons (face visible from forehead to chin) |
Who this applies to
These rules are mandatory for all applicants, including Ukrainians and other foreigners, applying for:
- A Schengen or national visa to Denmark.
- A residence permit (including obtaining or extending status under the Special Act).
- A resident card or Danish driver's license.
The requirements are the same for both adults and children (including infants, who must also be photographed with their eyes open and without any foreign objects in the frame).
What to do now
- Go to a professional photographer: Inform them that you need a photo for Danish documents (EU standard 35x45 mm).
- Check the lighting and background: Ensure there is a solid light background behind you and no harsh shadows on your face.
- Remove unnecessary accessories: If you wear thick-framed glasses, it is better to take them off for the photo to avoid rejection due to covered eyes or glare on the lenses.
- Print in high quality: The photo must be printed on high-quality photo paper at a high resolution, without damage, creases, or staple marks.
Common mistakes
- Incorrect face size: The face is too large or too small (it must be exactly 30-36 mm).
- Shadows on the background: These occur if you stand too close to the wall while being photographed.
- Smiling or open mouth: Automatic facial recognition systems (biometrics) reject such photos.
- Hair covering the eyes: The eyes must be fully visible; it is also advisable not to cover the eyebrows with thick bangs.
Rules change frequently — before taking action, always check the current requirements on the official government source provided above.
Related guides
Official sources
Questions
- Can I smile in a Denmark visa photo?
- No, official rules require a neutral facial expression with the mouth closed. Smiling can lead to the photo being rejected by the biometric system.
- What color should the background of the photo be?
- The background must be solid and light. The official requirements of the Danish police cite light blue or light gray as examples, without any patterns or shadows.
- Can I wear glasses in the photo?
- Yes, but the lenses must not be tinted or have flash glare, and the frame must not cover the eyes. If in doubt, it is better to take off your glasses for the photo.