What is the size of Germany visa photo?

Germany visa photos must be 35mm wide x 45mm tall, following standard Schengen requirements. The face should occupy 70-80% of the photo with white or light background.

How many photos do I need for German visa?

You typically need 2 identical photos for a German Schengen visa application. Some visa categories may require only 1 photo. Check with your specific VFS center or embassy.

Is German visa photo same as Schengen visa photo?

Yes, Germany follows standard Schengen visa photo requirements: 35 x 45mm, white or light gray background, 70-80% face coverage. The same photo works for any Schengen country visa.

How long does German Schengen visa take?

Standard processing takes 15-20 working days. Peak seasons (summer, winter holidays) may take up to 45 days. Apply at least 3-4 weeks before your travel date.

ID Schengen Compliant

Germany Visa Photo Requirements

Visum Foto / Schengen-Visum

Create photos for German Schengen visa - tourist, business, student, and work visa applications. Size: 35 x 45mm.

Create Visa Photo

35 x 45mm

Schengen

German Visa Types

Tourist Visa (C)

Schengen Short-Stay

- Up to 90 days in 180 days
- Tourism, family visits
- Valid for all Schengen

Business Visa (C)

Schengen Short-Stay

- Meetings, conferences
- Trade fairs
- Contract negotiations

Student Visa (D)

National Long-Stay

- University studies
- Language courses (3+ months)
- Research stays

Work Visa (D)

National Long-Stay

- EU Blue Card
- Skilled workers
- Job Seeker visa

Photo Specifications

Size Requirements

Photo Size	35 x 45 mm
In Inches	1.38 x 1.77 inches
Digital Size	413 x 531 px
Face Coverage	70-80%
Photos Required	2 copies

Schengen Standards

OK White or light gray background
OK Taken within last 6 months
OK Full face, front view
OK Neutral expression, no smile
OK High quality, no pixelation
No No glasses recommended
No No headwear (religious exceptions)

Where to Apply

VFS Global

Official visa processing partner for many countries

- India, Pakistan, Bangladesh
- Philippines, Indonesia
- Middle East countries

German Embassy

Direct application in some countries

- USA, UK, Canada
- Australia, Japan
- Some European countries

iDATA

Alternative service provider

- Turkey
- Russia
- Some African countries

Processing Times & Fees

Visa Type	Processing	Fee
Schengen Tourist/Business (C)	15-20 days	80
Student Visa (D)	4-12 weeks	75
Work Visa / Blue Card (D)	4-12 weeks	75
Job Seeker Visa (D)	4-12 weeks	75
Children (6-12 years)	Same	40
Children (under 6)	Same	Free

* Service fees from VFS/iDATA are additional (18-30)

Required Documents (Tourist Visa)

Mandatory

OK Valid passport (3+ months after return)
OK Visa application form (signed)
OK 2 biometric photos (35 x 45mm)
OK Travel insurance (30,000 coverage)
OK Flight reservation
OK Hotel booking / accommodation proof
OK Bank statements (3-6 months)

Supporting Documents

- Cover letter explaining purpose
- Employment letter / business proof
- Income Tax Returns
- Invitation letter (if visiting family/friends)
- Day-by-day travel itinerary
- Previous travel history

Common Photo Mistakes

Smiling

Neutral expression only

Wrong Background

White/light gray only

Wrong Size

Must be 35 x 45mm exactly

Old Photo

Must be within 6 months

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use same photo for German visa and passport?

Yes, the size is the same (35 x 45mm) for both German visa and German passport. However, German passport requires light gray background specifically, while visa accepts white or light gray. If you use light gray, it works for both.

Is German visa difficult to get?

Germany has a moderate rejection rate compared to other Schengen countries. Key factors for approval:

Strong ties to home country (job, property, family)
Sufficient funds for the trip
Clear travel itinerary
Complete and accurate documentation
Valid travel insurance

When should I apply for German Schengen visa?

Ideal timing:

Earliest: 6 months before travel
Recommended: 4-6 weeks before travel
Latest: 15 working days before travel

During summer (June-August) and Christmas, apply even earlier as processing takes longer.

Can I visit other Schengen countries with German visa?

Yes! A German Schengen visa allows travel 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.

Note: You should apply to the country where you'll spend the most time, or the first country of entry if time is equal.