Latvia National ID Card Photo: Official PMLP Requirements

A compliant photo for the Latvian national ID card (eID) must meet the ICAO biometric standard enforced by the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (PMLP — Pilsonības un migrācijas lietu pārvalde). The specification is shared with the Latvian passport: a 35×45 mm portrait on a neutral light-gray background, with a natural expression and precise face framing. Meeting these requirements to the letter is the difference between a smooth appointment and having to return.

One important fact distinguishes the Latvian eID from many other identity documents: PMLP captures the biometric photo digitally on-site at its service centres as an integral part of the application process. You do not bring a printed photograph — the image is taken and securely stored by PMLP equipment during your visit. This makes the process more controlled and consistent, but it also means a photo prepared at home or at an ordinary photo studio cannot be submitted directly for this document. Understanding the standard still matters enormously: it tells you precisely how you should look, how to dress, and what to avoid — so your appointment goes smoothly the first time.

• Photo size: 35×45 mm (digital equivalent: 827×1063 px at 300 dpi)
• Background: neutral light gray (#F5F5F5); no gradients, shadows, textures, or colour tints
• Face height: 70–80% of the total frame height
• Expression: neutral and natural, mouth closed, eyes open and clearly visible
• Glasses: permitted only if lenses are clear (not tinted), there is no glare, and both eyes are fully visible; removing glasses is strongly recommended to avoid any risk
• Headwear: prohibited except for verified religious reasons; must not obscure the face or hairline
• Recency: taken within the last 6 months

• Wrong background colour: white or any coloured background is non-compliant — the standard requires a specific neutral light gray, a common error for applicants used to photo booths in other countries
• Incorrect face proportion: a face that is too small or too large relative to the frame (outside the 70–80% range) fails biometric verification automatically
• Glasses with glare or tinted lenses: even minor reflections from overhead lighting are flagged during the digital quality check
• Non-religious headwear: hats, caps, and fashion scarves are not permitted under any circumstances

Because PMLP takes the photo during your appointment, you cannot submit a self-prepared image for the Latvian ID card. What you can do is generate a fully standard-compliant reference photo here — correctly sized at 35×45 mm, with the right background shade, face framing, and crop — so you know exactly how you need to look when you arrive. It also helps you spot potential issues in advance: glasses glare, background colour, head angle, or expression. For other documents that do accept externally supplied photos — such as visa applications, residence permits, or forms from other authorities — the image is ready to download and print.