Finland Passport, Visa and Residence Permit (oleskelulupa) Photo 2026: 36x47 mm Size and kuvatunnus Requirements
In short. In 2026, photos for Finnish documents must be 36x47 mm, and for online submission, an electronic kuvatunnus code valid for 6 months is used.
- Paper photo size: strictly 36 x 47 mm.
- Face size: 32 to 36 mm (from chin to crown).
- Kuvatunnus: an electronic photo code issued by the photographer for online submission.
- Validity period: the photo and kuvatunnus code are valid for exactly 6 months.
- Glasses: allowed, but the police strongly recommend removing them to avoid glare.
What has changed
In 2026, Finland continues to use strict biometric standards for passport, visa, ID card, and residence permit (oleskelulupa) photos. The main feature of the Finnish system is the use of the electronic kuvatunnus code for online document submission. When you take a photo at a certified Finnish photo studio, the photographer uploads your image directly to a secure police server, and you receive an SMS with a short code valid for 6 months.
If you are submitting a paper application, you will need a printed photo. Its exact parameters are:
| Parameter | Finnish Police (Poliisi) Requirement |
|---|---|
| Photo size | 36 x 47 mm |
| Face size | 32–36 mm (from chin to crown) |
| Background | Light, plain, without shadows or patterns |
| Validity period | Not older than 6 months |
| Facial expression | Neutral, mouth closed, eyes open |
Who this applies to
These rules are mandatory for anyone applying for Finnish documents, including Ukrainians and other migrants applying for:
- A residence permit (oleskelulupa) through the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri).
- A Finnish passport or identity card (ID card).
- A Schengen visa for Finland.
What to do now
- Find a photo studio: Contact a photographer in Finland who has access to the police server (most professional studios provide this service).
- Get the code: After the photoshoot, ask them to send you the kuvatunnus.
- Submit your application online: When filling out the application on the Enter Finland portal (for a residence permit) or on the police website, enter the received code in the appropriate field.
- For paper submission: If you are submitting documents abroad or in paper form, be sure to bring a printed photo measuring 36x47 mm.
Common mistakes
- Trying to upload the photo yourself: The police server only accepts photos from authorized photographers. You cannot upload a selfie or a file from a flash drive.
- Incorrect face size: If the face on the paper photo is smaller than 32 mm or larger than 36 mm, the application will be rejected.
- Glare on glasses: Although glasses are formally allowed, the police recommend removing them, as any glare on the lenses or shadows from the frames will result in the photo being rejected.
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 take a photo on my phone and get a kuvatunnus?
- No. Only authorized photographers in Finland can upload photos to the police server and generate a kuvatunnus code.
- How long is the kuvatunnus code valid?
- The electronic code and the photo itself are valid for exactly 6 months from the date of the photoshoot.
- What size paper photo is required for a visa or residence permit?
- If you are submitting paper documents, the photo size must be strictly 36 x 47 mm, and the face height on it must be between 32 and 36 mm.