What size photo is required for a Schengen visa?

Schengen visa photos must be 35mm wide × 45mm tall. This is the standard size for all 27 Schengen countries including Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, and others. Digital photos should be at least 413 × 531 pixels at 300 DPI.

Can I use the same photo for all Schengen countries?

Yes! All 27 Schengen countries follow the same ICAO-compliant photo specifications. Once you create a 35×45mm photo with white background, you can use it for visa applications to any Schengen country.

What background color is required for Schengen visa photos?

Schengen visa photos require a plain white or light grey background (70-80% grey). The background must be uniform without patterns, textures, or shadows. White is the safest choice accepted by all countries.

Can I wear glasses in my Schengen visa photo?

It's recommended to remove glasses for Schengen visa photos to avoid reflections or shadows. If you must wear glasses for medical reasons, ensure there is no glare, the frames don't cover your eyes, and your eyes are clearly visible.

How many photos do I need for a Schengen visa application?

Most Schengen visa applications require 2 identical photos. Some countries or visa types may ask for additional photos. Always check the specific embassy requirements for your destination country.

🇪🇺 ICAO Compliant

Schengen Visa Photo Requirements

One photo specification for all 27 Schengen countries. Works for Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Switzerland, Austria, and more.

Create Schengen Visa Photo →

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35 × 45 mm

All 27 Countries

Valid for All 27 Schengen Countries

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Germany

🇫🇷

France

🇮🇹

Italy

🇪🇸

Spain

🇳🇱

Netherlands

🇧🇪

Belgium

🇦🇹

Austria

🇨🇭

Switzerland

🇵🇱

Poland

🇵🇹

Portugal

🇸🇪

Sweden

🇳🇴

Norway

🇩🇰

Denmark

🇫🇮

Finland

🇬🇷

Greece

🇨🇿

Czech Rep.

🇭🇺

Hungary

🇱🇺

Luxembourg

🇸🇰

Slovakia

🇸🇮

Slovenia

🇪🇪

Estonia

🇱🇻

Latvia

🇱🇹

Lithuania

🇲🇹

Malta

🇮🇸

Iceland

🇱🇮

Liechtenstein

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Croatia

ICAO-Compliant Photo Specifications

Size & Dimensions

Photo Size	35 × 45 mm
In Inches	1.38 × 1.77 inches
Head Height	32 - 36 mm
Face Coverage	70 - 80%
Digital Resolution	≥ 300 DPI

Photo Standards

✓ Plain white or light grey background
✓ Recent photo (within 6 months)
✓ Neutral expression, mouth closed
✓ Eyes open, looking straight at camera
✓ Full face visible, hair away from face
✗ No glasses recommended
✗ No head coverings (religious exceptions)

Schengen Visa Types

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Type C - Short Stay

For tourism, business visits, family visits up to 90 days within 180 days.

Most common visa type

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Type D - Long Stay

National visa for study, work, or residence over 90 days.

Country-specific

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Type A - Airport Transit

For connecting flights through Schengen airports without entering.

Transit only

Common Photo Rejection Reasons

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Glasses With Glare

Remove glasses or ensure no reflections on lenses.

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Smiling

Keep neutral expression with mouth closed.

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Poor Lighting

Ensure even lighting without harsh shadows.

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Wrong Size

Must be exactly 35×45mm, not standard 2×2 inch.

Schengen Visa Photo FAQ

Is 35×45mm the same as 2×2 inches (US size)? ▼

No! Schengen photos (35×45mm = 1.38×1.77 inches) are different from US photos (51×51mm = 2×2 inches). Using the wrong size is a common reason for visa rejection. Always use the European 35×45mm size for Schengen applications.

How recent should my Schengen visa photo be? ▼

Your photo must be taken within the last 6 months and accurately represent your current appearance. If you've significantly changed your appearance (haircut, weight, glasses), take a new photo.

Can I wear religious head coverings? ▼

Yes, head coverings worn for religious reasons are allowed. However, your face from the bottom of the chin to the top of the forehead must be clearly visible. The covering must not create shadows on your face.

Do different Schengen countries have different photo requirements? ▼

No, all 27 Schengen countries follow the same ICAO-compliant photo specifications. The 35×45mm photo with white background works for all countries. However, some embassies may have additional specific requirements, so always check with your destination country's embassy.

Where can I get Schengen visa photos printed? ▼

You can print your Schengen photos at:

Photo studios - €8-15 for 4 photos
Drug stores (dm, Rossmann, Boots) - €5-10
Photo booths in train stations - €6-8
Print at home with VisaPicPro (most affordable)