Bulgaria Passport Photo 35mm x 45mm requirements

1. Format and Dimensions

• Photo Size: Exactly 35 mm x 45 mm.
• Head Size: The height of the face (from the chin to the top of the head) must be between 31.5 mm and 36 mm.
• Centering: The face must be centered horizontally.

2. Technical Quality

• Resolution and Sharpness: The image must be sharp, clear, and high-contrast.
• Paper Surface: The photo must be printed on smooth matte paper.
• Paper Thickness: Must be between 0.12 mm and 0.20 mm.
• Color: The photo must be in color, with natural skin tones and no "red-eye" or color casts.

3. Background and Lighting

• Background: Must be a neutral light gray (specifically 18% to 20% density). It must be uniform, without patterns, shadows, or reflections.
• Lighting: Lighting must be even across the face and background to prevent shadows behind the head or on the face.

4. Pose and Facial Expression

• Pose: Frontal view (En Face). The head must be straight, not tilted or turned.
• Eyes: Must be open, clearly visible, and looking directly at the camera lens.
• Expression: A neutral expression is mandatory. The mouth must be closed, and there should be no visible teeth or smiling.

5. Glasses and Headgear

• Glasses: Only allowed if they are worn permanently for medical reasons. The frames must not cover the eyes, and there must be no reflections on the lenses. Tinted or dark lenses are forbidden.
• Headgear: Generally not permitted. Exceptions are made for religious reasons, provided that the entire face from the bottom of the chin to the top of the forehead is fully visible and no shadows are cast on the face.

6. Specific Restrictions

• Retouching: Digital manipulation or retouching of the photo is strictly prohibited.
• Cleanliness: The photo must be free of ink marks, creases, or scratches.

References

• Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Bulgaria: Rules for the Issuance of Bulgarian Identity Documents (Word Document)