Schengen Visa Photo Requirements
Last verified: 3 min read
Photo specifications for your application
Photo Requirements Overview
Your Schengen visa application requires two identical passport-style photographs meeting specific requirements. Photos that do not meet these standards may cause your application to be rejected or delayed.
The requirements are standardized across all Schengen countries based on ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) guidelines.
Photo Specifications
Size 35 x 45mm Width x height
Background White/light gray Plain, no patterns
Age < 6 months Recent photo only
Quantity 2 photos Identical copies
Size and Framing Requirements
- Dimensions: 35mm wide x 45mm tall (some countries accept 35x40mm)
- Face coverage: Your face should occupy 70-80% of the frame
- Head position: Face the camera directly, head straight (not tilted)
- Face visible: From top of hair to bottom of chin must be visible
- Eyes: Eyes must be open, clearly visible, and at the same level
- Head height: Face should be 32-36mm from chin to crown
Background and Lighting
- Background color: Plain white or light gray (no patterns, shadows, or objects)
- Lighting: Even, with no shadows on face or background
- No reflections: No glare on face or glasses
- Focus: Sharp and clear, not blurry or pixelated
- Print quality: High quality on photo paper, not matte or glossy inkjet
Expression and Appearance
- Expression: Neutral expression, mouth closed, no smiling
- Eyes: Looking directly at camera, both eyes fully visible
- Glasses: Not recommended (but allowed if no glare/reflections)
- Hair: Should not cover face or eyes
- No headwear: Unless for religious/medical reasons (face must still be visible)
- No filters: Must represent current, natural appearance
Remove Glasses If Possible
While glasses are technically allowed, they often cause problems: reflections, obscured eyes, and frame shadows. To avoid rejection, remove your glasses for the photo unless they're medically necessary (in which case, ensure no glare or reflections).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Photos are frequently rejected for these reasons:
- Wrong size: Using US passport size (2x2 inch) instead of Schengen size (35x45mm)
- Old photo: Using a photo more than 6 months old
- Bad background: Using a colored, patterned, or shadowy background
- Glasses glare: Reflections or shadows from eyewear
- Face too small/large: Not filling 70-80% of the frame
- Expression: Smiling, mouth open, or eyes not looking at camera
- Poor quality: Blurry, pixelated, or printed on regular paper
- Hair covering face: Eyes or eyebrows obscured
Where to Get Photos
You can get compliant photos from:
- Professional photo studios: Best option — tell them it is for a Schengen visa
- Passport photo booths: Many have Schengen visa presets
- Pharmacy photo services: Some offer passport/visa photos
- Online services: Upload and get photos delivered (ensure they meet specs)
Tip: Always specify "Schengen visa photo" or "European passport photo" — requirements differ from US and other passport photos.
Photo FAQs
Can I use the same photo as my passport?
Only if it is less than 6 months old and meets Schengen specifications. If your passport is older, you will need new photos. Also check the size — US passport photos (2x2 inch) are different from Schengen (35x45mm).
Can I wear glasses in my photo?
It is allowed but not recommended. If you do wear glasses, ensure there is no glare, reflections, or shadows, and your eyes are fully visible. Many applications are rejected due to glasses issues — removing them is safer.
Can I wear a head covering?
Only for religious or medical reasons. Your full face from chin to forehead must still be visible. You may need to provide documents explaining the religious/medical requirement.
Can I print photos at home?
Not recommended. Home inkjet prints rarely meet the quality standards required. Use a professional service or dedicated photo printer with proper photo paper.
What if my baby/child will not look at the camera?
For infants and young children, requirements are slightly relaxed. Eyes should ideally be open and visible, but a slight deviation in gaze may be accepted. No toys, hands, or other people should be visible in the photo.
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