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The Challenge
Albania requires 40×50mm passport photos with strict biometric standards, white background, and matte paper. Professional services charge €10-15. One rejected photo = resubmission delays.
Albanian passport photo requirements
Albania follows ICAO Document 9303 biometric standards with specific requirements: 40×50mm dimensions, white background (strictly enforced), head height 32-36mm from chin to crown. Photos must be taken within 6 months, printed on matte paper. Albanian embassies and consulates reject photos with off-white, cream, or grey backgrounds—only pure white accepted.
Albania passport photo requirements - will your photo be accepted?
- 40×50mm dimensions (larger than EU standard 35×45mm)
- Pure white background—no off-white, cream, or grey
- Head height 32-36mm (64-72% of frame height)
- Taken within last 6 months
- Face centered, neutral expression, mouth closed
- Eyes open and fully visible, no hair covering
- No glasses (remove unless medical exemption)
- 944×1181 pixels at 600 DPI minimum
- Printed on matte photo paper only
- No shadows on face or background
Common rejection reasons
- Using EU 35×45mm format instead of required 40×50mm
- Off-white or cream background instead of pure white
- Head size outside 32-36mm range
- Shadows visible on white background
- Wearing glasses without medical documentation
- Low resolution causing pixelation
- Printed on glossy paper instead of matte
- Photo older than 6 months
How to print Albania passport photos at home
- Paper: Use matte photo-quality paper (required by Albanian authorities). Glossy paper will be rejected.
- Printer settings: Select highest quality, 100% scale (no 'fit to page'), colour mode.
- Paper size: Choose 4R (102×152mm) for 4-6 photos, or A4 for larger sheets.
- Cutting: Use sharp scissors or paper trimmer. Cut precisely along grey guide lines.
- Size verification: Final photos must measure exactly 40×50mm. Use ruler to confirm.
- Alternative: Print at local photo shop. Specify '40×50mm on matte paper'.
Good vs bad Albania passport photo examples
Albania vs EU passport photo differences
Albania uses 40×50mm format—larger than standard EU 35×45mm. This is critical: EU passport photos will be rejected for Albanian applications. Albania also strictly enforces pure white backgrounds, while some EU countries accept cream or light grey. Both require matte paper, neutral expression, no glasses. If applying for Albanian passport from EU country, ensure you use 40×50mm format with white background.
Official Albanian Government Resources
Step-by-Step Workflow
Upload Photo
Position Head Using Guidelines
Select Enhancement
Download or Print Sheet
Specifications
- Photo Size
- 40×50 mm
- Resolution
- 944×1181 pixels at 600 DPI
- Head Height
- 32-36 mm (64-72% of frame)
- Background
- White (required)
- Recency
- Taken within last 6 months
- Expression
- Neutral, mouth closed, eyes open
- Paper Type
- Matte photo paper
- Valid For
- Passport, national ID
Best Practices
- Albania requires pure white background—use white wall or white backdrop, not off-white
- 40×50mm is larger than standard EU 35×45mm—verify dimensions before printing
- Matte paper required—Albanian authorities reject glossy prints
- Remove all glasses unless medical exemption with signed doctor's letter
- Ensure even lighting to avoid shadows on white background
- Print at 600 DPI for acceptance—lower resolution will be rejected
- Use crop guidelines to ensure head height is 32-36mm (rejection if outside range)
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Albania passport photo requirements?
Albanian passport photos must be 40×50mm with pure white background, head height 32-36mm, taken within 6 months, printed on matte paper at 600 DPI. Face centered, neutral expression, no glasses, no shadows.
Can I use EU passport photos for Albania?
No. EU standard is 35×45mm, Albania requires 40×50mm. Using EU format will result in rejection. Dimensions must be exact—40×50mm only.
Does Albania accept cream or off-white backgrounds?
No. Albania requires pure white background only. Off-white, cream, or grey backgrounds will be rejected by Albanian authorities. Use pure white wall or white backdrop.
Can I wear glasses in Albania passport photos?
No, unless medically required with signed doctor's statement. Even with medical exemption: no tinted lenses, no glare or reflection, frames must not cover eyes.
How recent must Albania passport photos be?
Within last 6 months to reflect current appearance. Photos older than 6 months will be rejected.
What paper type for Albania passport photos?
Matte photo paper only. Albanian authorities reject glossy prints. Specify matte finish when printing at home or at photo services.
Where can I print Albania passport photos?
Print at home on matte photo paper, or at local photo shops. Specify '40×50mm on matte paper'. Cost: €0.30-0.60 at home vs €10-15 at professional services.
What's the pixel size for Albania passport photos?
944×1181 pixels at 600 DPI. This ensures print quality meets Albanian government standards. Lower resolution will be rejected.