Last Updated: June 2026
Official photo specifications for Schengen Area visa applications. These requirements apply to all 27 Schengen member states including France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, and more.
Complete official photo specifications. Meet every requirement to avoid costly application delays.
| Requirement | Specification | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Photo Size | 35×45mm | ICAO standard, applies to all 27 Schengen states |
| Head Size | 32–36mm | From chin to crown of head |
| Background | Light plain (white or off-white) | No patterns, shadows, or colored backgrounds |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed | Eyes open, looking directly at camera |
| Glasses | Not Allowed | Since 2015 ICAO directive |
| Head Coverings | Not Allowed | Exception for religious reasons with documentation |
| Recency | Within last 6 months | Must be a current likeness |
| Color | Color Required | No black & white or sepia |
| Quantity | 2 photos required | Both submitted with visa application |
| Format | Matte or glossy photo paper | No digital grain or pixelation |
| DPI | 600 DPI minimum | Sharp, clear focus required |
| Face Coverage | 70–80% of frame | Full face and top of shoulders visible |
Schengen photo requirements are harmonized across all member states. One photo set works for France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and all other Schengen countries.
Schengen visa appointment wait times can be 4–8 weeks at peak season. Have your photos ready well in advance.
VFS Global and TLScontact operate visa application centers in most countries. They verify photos before submission, reducing rejection risk.
Do not wear military, police, or official uniforms. Everyday clothing is required. Religious dress is allowed with documentation.
Both photos must be from the same session, taken on the same day. They must be perfect duplicates — same lighting, angle, and expression.
Blurry or pixelated photos are rejected. Use a modern smartphone in good light or visit a professional photographer for guaranteed results.
Follow these steps to generate a compliant, print-ready Schengen / EU passport photo in minutes.
Use a plain white or very light wall as your backdrop. Take the photo in portrait orientation with your face centered. Ensure even lighting — window light works well.
Choose 'Schengen Visa' in the country selector. The tool automatically applies 35×45mm dimensions and a light plain background compliant with EU visa standards.
The compliance AI checks for: neutral expression, open eyes, correct head size, clean background, and absence of glasses. Approve all checks before downloading.
Print two identical 35×45mm photos on photo-quality paper. Attach one to the visa application form and bring the second to your appointment at the consulate or visa center.
Answers to the most frequently asked questions about Schengen / EU passport photo requirements.
Applying for visas across multiple countries? Check exact requirements for each.
Key details about Schengen / EU passport processing, fees, and where to submit your application.
Run through every item before printing and submitting. Each point is a potential rejection reason.
These are the most frequent reasons for passport photo rejection. Avoid them to ensure first-time acceptance.
For a Schengen visa, apply at the embassy of the country where you'll spend the most time. If equal time, apply at the country of first entry. Wrong embassy submission causes automatic rejection.
Schengen visas can only be applied for 6 months before travel but no later than 15 days before. Consulate appointments often fill up weeks in advance — apply early.
Both Schengen visa photos must be from the same session, same day. They must be perfect copies. Different crops or photos from different days are not accepted.
Some applicants use blue backgrounds (common for US visas) or patterned walls. Schengen requires a light plain white or off-white background only.
Glasses are prohibited for all Schengen visa and passport photos per ICAO standards. Remove all eyewear before taking your photo.
Each of the 27 Schengen states has slightly different application procedures. Always verify requirements with the specific embassy for your destination country.
Applying for multiple passports or visas? See how Schengen / EU's photo requirements compare to other popular destinations.
| Country | Photo Size | Background | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 2×2" (51×51mm) | White/off-white background | Photo within 6 months |
| United Kingdom | 35×45mm | Light grey/cream background | Not in Schengen Area |
| Japan | 35×45mm | Light plain background | Photo within 6 months |
| Australia | 35×45mm | Light plain background | Photo within 6 months |
Requirements updated June 2026. Always verify with the official issuing authority before submitting your application.
Our network of professional photographers can take your passport photo in person with guaranteed compliance for Schengen / EU applications.