4×4 cm (40×40 mm) Photo

The 40×40 mm photograph is a square document format chosen by applications that call for a balanced, symmetrical portrait. As with other square sizes, the head is set a little smaller than in a tall format so the picture keeps even margins on all four sides while the face stays clearly the focus.

Below you will find the exact requirements for the 40×40 mm size, where it is generally used, and how our studio turns a regular photo into a compliant file for printing and online submission.

When you need a 40×40 mm photo

Square formats such as 40×40 mm appear on selected identity, permit and registration applications in different countries. Square sizes are specified by name far more often than they are assumed, so you will usually see 40×40 mm written explicitly on the form, checklist or portal. Match the figure your institution provides; if it states 40×40 mm, this is the format to prepare.

Exact specification

The image is 40 mm wide by 40 mm tall, a square of about 1.57 by 1.57 inches. We produce it at 300 dpi for a sharp print. The head should measure around 30 mm from chin to crown, filling roughly 55 to 72 percent of the frame, which centres the face with balanced space around it in the square layout.

• Size: 40×40 mm (about 1.57×1.57 in) at 300 dpi.
• Head height: about 30 mm, 55–72 percent of the frame.
• Background: flat white (#FFFFFF), no shadows or gradients.
• Expression: neutral and natural, lips closed, no smile, eyes open.
• Glasses: not allowed; remove them before the photo is taken.
• Headwear: only plain coverings worn daily for religious reasons, with the whole face visible.
• File: JPG under 2 MB.

Why these photos get rejected

The square layout makes head sizing the leading cause of refusal: a head scaled for a tall photo looks too large here and should instead sit within the lower head-height band. Other common issues are a background that is not truly white, a shadow falling behind the head or to one side, a smile or parted lips that break the neutral rule, and eyes partly covered by glasses or hair. We address each of these during preparation so the photo conforms.

Our preparation process

Send a clear photo taken in soft, even light while looking straight at the camera. We centre your head in the square, set the head height to about 30 mm so the margins are balanced, and rebuild the background as a clean, even white field with any shadows removed. We verify a calm, neutral expression with both eyes open and the mouth closed, then balance colour and skin tone for a natural, professional look. The finished file is measured against the square dimensions and head-size band to confirm it meets specification.

Print-ready and digital files

You receive a digital JPG at exactly 40×40 mm, 300 dpi, and under the 2 MB limit, ready for online forms and portals. We also include a print sheet arranged at true physical size with cut guides, so you can have copies printed at a photo counter or print at home on standard 10×15 cm paper and trim to the square. Both files use the same approved image, keeping your printed and digital photos consistent.

Final checklist

Choose clothing that contrasts with the white background, keep your hair clear of your eyes and the outline of your face, and look directly into the lens with a relaxed expression. If your specific application adds any wording beyond the standard rules, follow it exactly as written. With the 40×40 mm square size, correct head height, white background, neutral expression and 2 MB JPG limit all in place, your photograph is ready to submit with confidence.