Passport photo size – dimensions for common documents
In Denmark and most of Europe a passport photo is 35 × 45 mm, but the US, Canada and others use different sizes. The table shows dimensions and head height with a link to the source and our last review date.
What is head height?
Head height is measured from the chin to the top of the head. It ensures the face is large enough for face recognition. A head that is too small or too large can lead to rejection even if the photo size is right.
Millimetres, DPI and pixels
When printing, resolution (DPI) sets how many pixels fit per millimetre. A 35 × 45 mm photo at 600 dpi is about 827 × 1063 pixels. Online applications may have their own pixel and file size rules.
Printing at the right size
With the print template you get a 4 × 6" or A4 sheet at exact scale. Print it without 'fit to page', otherwise the dimensions change.
Sizes and sources
| Document | Size | Head height | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Danish passport | 35 × 45 mm | 30–36 mm | Politi.dk – krav til pasfotoReviewed 2026-10-16 · Official source reviewed |
| Schengen visa | 35 × 45 mm | 32–36 mm | EU-Kommissionen – Schengen visaReviewed 2026-10-16 · Source reviewed – may vary |
| UK passport | 35 × 45 mm | 29–34 mm | GOV.UK – Photos for passportsReviewed 2026-10-16 · Official source reviewed |
| US passport | 51 × 51 mm | 25–35 mm | travel.state.gov – Passport photosReviewed 2026-10-16 · Official source reviewed |
| Canadian passport | 50 × 70 mm | 31–36 mm | Canada.ca – Passport photosReviewed 2026-10-16 · Official source reviewed |
| Australian passport | 35 × 45 mm | 32–36 mm | passports.gov.au – Photo guidelinesReviewed 2026-10-16 · Official source reviewed |
| Indian passport | 51 × 51 mm | 25–35 mm | Passport Seva – Photo specificationsReviewed 2026-10-16 · Source reviewed – may vary |
Rules can change. The authority always makes the final decision.
Frequently asked questions
- What size is a Danish passport photo?
- 35 mm wide and 45 mm high, with a head height of about 30–36 mm according to the Danish police.
- Is a US passport photo the same as a European one?
- No. A US passport photo is square, 2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm).
- How do I avoid wrong dimensions when printing?
- Print the template at 100 % scale without automatic fit to paper.
Crop my photo to the right size