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Belgium Passport Photo Size and Requirements

Everything about the Belgian passport photo: 35x45mm size, light background requirements, and how to create a compliant photo free and privately in your browser.

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How to use Belgium Passport Photo

  1. 1Upload a clear, front-facing photo taken against a plain white or light grey background.
  2. 2Drag to frame your head within the 35×45mm crop guide.
  3. 3The photo is sized to exactly 413×531px at 300 DPI.
  4. 4Download your print-ready passport photo — nothing is uploaded.

Features

  • Photo dimensions of 35mm by 45mm (413 x 531 pixels at 300 DPI)
  • Uniform white or light grey background with no shadows behind the head
  • Neutral expression, mouth closed, looking straight at the camera
  • Eyes fully visible and not covered by hair, frames, or reflections
  • Even, shadow-free lighting across the entire face
  • Recent photo that accurately reflects your current appearance

Belgium passport photo size & rules

Belgium, a densely populated country in Western Europe bordering the North Sea, France, the Netherlands, Germany, and Luxembourg, uses a standardised photograph for all passport (paspoort / passeport) applications. The required size is 35 millimetres by 45 millimetres, which equals 413 by 531 pixels when produced at 300 DPI. This conforms to the ICAO biometric specification shared across the European Union.

Belgian passports are issued under the authority of the Federale Overheidsdienst Buitenlandse Zaken (FPS Foreign Affairs) and applications are handled through your local municipal administration (gemeente / commune). Belgium maintains particularly strict photo criteria: a neutral expression, closed mouth, and a direct gaze into the camera are mandatory. The background must be plain white or light grey, lighting must be even with no shadows on the face or behind the head, and the eyes must be fully visible without hair or glasses obscuring them.

You can build a compliant Belgian passport photo directly in your browser here. The processing happens entirely on your own device, so no image is ever uploaded and your privacy is fully protected, and the service is free. Because Belgium updates its photo standards periodically, always confirm the current official requirements with your commune or the FPS Foreign Affairs before submitting your application.

Frequently asked questions

What size must a Belgian passport photo be?

It must measure 35mm wide by 45mm tall, which is 413 by 531 pixels at 300 DPI, matching the EU biometric standard.

Are smiling photos accepted in Belgium?

No. Belgium requires a neutral facial expression with the mouth closed. Smiling, frowning, or raised eyebrows can lead to rejection.

Who issues Belgian passports?

Passports are issued under the Federale Overheidsdienst Buitenlandse Zaken (FPS Foreign Affairs), with applications processed by your local municipality (gemeente or commune).

Can I wear a head covering in my photo?

Head coverings are only allowed for religious reasons, and even then your full face from chin to forehead must remain clearly visible.

How can I be sure the requirements are current?

Photo rules can change over time, so always verify the latest specifications with your commune or the FPS Foreign Affairs before submitting your passport application.

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