Prepare eID and passport photos for Belgian communes
Belgian passports, eID cards, and kids’ IDs use 35×45 mm identity photos at commune counters. Adults and children share the size; children’s photos fail when an adult hand enters the frame.
Crop to 35×45 mm with a plain light background. Belgian communes expect a recent frontal portrait that still matches how you look at the counter.
eID renewals are handled locally. Ask your commune whether they want one or two prints, or whether they capture the photo in-house on appointment day.
Kids’ ID photos use the same millimetres. Lay infants on a plain sheet and shoot from above so supporting hands stay out of the crop.
Schengen visa prints are usually still 35×45 mm but may need two copies and a whiter background wording—follow the embassy PDF, not only the eID leaflet.
| Specification | Official requirement |
|---|---|
| Passport / eID / kids ID | 35 × 45 mm |
| Where you apply | Commune / municipal counter |
| Kids ID special rule | No adult hands in the frame |
Always confirm the latest rules on the official government site before you submit.
Cream or textured walls, wrong head size after a selfie, and beauty filters cause most delays.
- Call the commune before printing if they might photograph you on site.
- Avoid glossy paper that reflects counter lights.
- Keep the same hairstyle you will wear to biometrics when possible.
- For siblings, shoot separate portraits—do not crop a group photo.
Make your passport photo now
Crop to the official size in your browser, then download to upload or print.
Works on phone or desktop. No app download.
Can I print my own passport photo at home?
Will a home-printed photo be accepted?
What size should I print?
- • 35 × 45 mm
- • Plain light background
- • Neutral expression
- • Eyes visible
- • Correct prints or on-site capture
- • Children: empty frame around the face
- • No heavy filters
- • Sharp colour photo
- • Adult hand in a child’s photo
- • Wrong print count for that commune
- • Soft focus or yellow cast
- • Busy background
- • Out-of-date appearance
Size?
35×45 mm for passport, eID, and kids’ ID.
Does my commune take the photo?
Sometimes—ask before you print.
Kids’ rules?
Same size; no adult hands or toys in frame.
Visa same size?
Usually yes; print count may differ.
Background?
Plain light colour.
Smile?
Neutral, mouth closed.
Glasses?
Eyes clear without glare.
How recent?
Recent enough that staff recognise you immediately.
Also see EU / Schengen 35×45 mm photo standards →