Everything you need to know about Estonia (Eesti) ID card photo requirements, including exact dimensions, background color, pose rules, and how to take a compliant photo at home. The Estonian ID card (ID-kaart) is the primary identity document for Estonian citizens.
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Country | Estonia (Eesti) |
| Document Type | ID Card (ID-kaart) |
| Photo Size | 40 × 50 mm (4 × 5 cm) |
| Resolution (DPI) | 600 |
| Head Size | 70–80% of photo height (32–36 mm from chin to crown) |
| Eye Line Position | 50–70% from bottom edge of photo |
| Background Color | Light, plain, single colour (white, light blue, beige, light grey, or light brown) |
| Printable | Yes — on matte photo-quality paper |
| Digital Photo Size | Minimum 1,300 × 1,600 pixels (recommended 2,600 × 3,250 pixels) |
| Digital File Size | 1 MB – 5 MB |
| File Format | JPEG / JPG |
| Color | Color only (black and white not accepted) |
| Recency | Taken within the last 6 months |
The Estonian ID card (ID-kaart/Isikut tõendav dokument) is the primary identity document issued to Estonian citizens. The photo requirements are set by the Estonian Police and Border Guard Board (Politsei- ja Piirivalveamet).
Glasses are permitted under Estonian law if eyes are fully visible, there is no glare, and the lenses are not tinted. However, removal is recommended.
The Estonia e-Resident digital ID (for non-residents who apply for e-Residency) and the Resident Digital Identity Card use the same photo specifications as the national ID-kaart listed in the table above: 40×50 mm, plain background, neutral expression.
Applying for e-Residency? Upload your photo with this page's button — select Estonia ID Card as the photo type and the output meets the digital ID requirements too.
You don't need a professional studio. Follow these simple steps using your smartphone.
Any modern smartphone camera works. Clean the lens and use the highest resolution. Use a tripod or ask someone to take the photo. Avoid selfies as they tend to have the wrong angle.
Stand facing a window with natural daylight for even lighting. Avoid direct sunlight which creates harsh shadows. If using indoor lighting, use multiple light sources.
Wear normal everyday clothing. Avoid uniforms and tops that blend with the background. If you wear glasses, consider removing them for the safest result.
Stand about 1.5 meters from the camera. Face directly forward, head level, shoulders relaxed. Make sure both head and shoulders are visible in the frame.
Keep your expression neutral with mouth closed and both eyes open. Look straight at the camera. No smiling or exaggerated expressions.
Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable ID card photos
An Estonia ID card photo must be exactly 40×50 mm (4×5 cm). Your head must occupy 70–80% of the photo height, approximately 32–36 mm from chin to crown.
Glasses are permitted under Estonian law if your eyes are fully visible, there is no glare on the lenses, and the lenses are not tinted. However, removal is recommended for the best result.
The background must be light, plain, and single-coloured. Acceptable colours include white, light blue, beige, light grey, or light brown. No patterns or shadows are allowed.
Yes! Upload it to Passport Size Photo and our AI will automatically crop, resize, remove the background, and ensure it meets all Estonian ID card photo requirements.
Your ID card photo must have been taken within the last 6 months and reflect your current appearance.
The Estonian ID card (ID-kaart) is the mandatory identity document for Estonian citizens aged 15 and older. It serves as proof of identity and provides access to digital services.
No, hats and head coverings are not allowed unless worn for religious reasons. Religious head coverings require a written assessment from the Estonian Ministry of the Interior. Your full face must be clearly visible.
If your photo doesn't meet the requirements, your ID card application will be delayed. Using Passport Size Photo ensures your photo meets all Estonian Police requirements before submission.
Same size (40 × 50 mm) in other countries:
Other Estonia documents:
Popular photo requirements:
