Schengen Visa Photo Requirements
Specifications for European Schengen visa photos. Valid for all 27 Schengen area countries.
Photo Specifications
| Size | 35mm × 45mm |
| Background | Light grey, white, or light blue |
| Face Coverage | 70-80% of photo height |
| Head Height | 32-36mm from chin to crown |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed |
| Eyes | Open, looking at camera |
| Photo Age | Within 6 months |
Size Comparison
Schengen: 35×45mm | UK: 35×45mm | India/US: 51×51mm (2×2 inches)
Biometric Standards
Schengen photos must meet ICAO biometric standards:
- Face centered and looking directly at camera
- Neutral expression with mouth closed
- Eyes clearly visible without glare
- No head coverings except religious
- High resolution (minimum 300 DPI)
Do
- ✅ Ensure face covers 70-80% of frame
- ✅ Use light, uniform background
- ✅ Keep hair away from face
Schengen Area Countries
These specifications apply to all 27 Schengen countries:
Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size is required for Schengen visa photo?
35mm × 45mm (width × height). Face must cover 70-80% of the photo height. This is the standard for all 27 Schengen countries.
Is Schengen photo same as UK visa photo?
Yes, both are 35×45mm. However, they differ from Indian passport (51×51mm) and US visa (51×51mm) which are square format.
What background color for Schengen visa photo?
Light grey, white, or light blue backgrounds are accepted. Most embassies prefer light grey or pure white. Avoid colored or patterned backgrounds.
Can I wear glasses in Schengen visa photo?
Clear prescription glasses are allowed if there is no glare. However, removing glasses is recommended to avoid any issues with reflections.
How recent must my Schengen photo be?
The photo must be taken within the last 6 months and must represent your current appearance. Old photos will be rejected.
What is the face size requirement for Schengen?
Your face (chin to crown of head) must be 32-36mm in height, covering 70-80% of the photo. Face should be centered in the frame.
Can I smile in Schengen visa photo?
No, you must maintain a neutral expression with your mouth closed. Smiling or other expressions will cause rejection.
What are the digital photo requirements for Schengen?
Digital photos should be at least 600×800 pixels, in JPEG format, and between 50KB to 500KB file size depending on the specific embassy.
Do all Schengen countries accept the same photo?
Yes, the 35×45mm specification is standard across all 27 Schengen area countries. One photo format works for all.
What if my photo gets rejected for Schengen visa?
You will need to provide a new photo meeting specifications. Common rejection reasons include wrong size, shadows, wrong expression, or old photo.