What is the Spanish passport photo size?

Spanish passport photos must be 35mm × 45mm (known as foto carnet format). This is the standard EU passport photo size.

Can I wear glasses in Spanish passport photos?

No, glasses are not allowed in Spanish passport photos since 2020, following ICAO and EU standards for biometric photos.

Spanish Passport Photo Size Requirements - 35×45mm Foto Carnet (2026)

Official Spanish Passport Photo Specifications

The Spanish passport (Pasaporte Español) is one of the world's most powerful travel documents, providing visa-free access to over 190 countries! Whether you're applying for a new passport or renewing an existing one, your photo must meet strict EU and ICAO standards.

Spanish passport photos are known as "foto carnet" and follow the standard 35×45mm European format.

Foto Carnet - Spanish Passport Photo Specs

Photo Size	35mm × 45mm
Digital Dimensions	413 × 531 pixels (300 DPI)
Background Color	Plain white
Head Size	32-36mm (70-80% of photo height)
Eyes Position	28-35mm from bottom
Expression	Neutral, no smiling
Glasses	NOT ALLOWED ❌
Photo Age	Within last 6 months

Spanish Passport Types

Pasaporte Ordinario

Standard passport for Spanish citizens.

• Burgundy cover (EU standard)
• 32 pages
• Valid 5 years (under 30), 10 years (30+)
• Biometric chip included

Pasaporte de Servicio

Service passport for officials.

• Blue cover
• For government officials
• Same photo requirements

Pasaporte Diplomático

Diplomatic passport.

• Green cover
• For diplomats and their families
• Same photo specifications

Pasaporte Provisional

Emergency travel document.

• For emergencies only
• Valid for limited time
• Issued by consulates

Important Rules for Spanish Photos

What's NOT Allowed

✗

Glasses (including clear lenses)

✗

Smiling or any expression

✗

Head coverings (except religious)

✗

Colored backgrounds

✗

Shadows on face

✗

Hair covering eyes/face

What IS Required

✓

Face clearly visible

✓

Both eyes open and visible

✓

Natural skin tones

✓

High quality, in focus

How to Apply for a Spanish Passport

1

Book Cita Previa

Schedule appointment online at citapreviadnie.es

2

Prepare Documents

DNI, old passport (if renewing), payment receipt (€30)

3

Bring Your Photos

2 identical foto carnet photos (35×45mm)

4

Visit Comisaría

Attend your appointment at Policía Nacional

FAQs - Spanish Passport Photo

What size is a Spanish passport photo?

Spanish passport photos must be 35mm × 45mm, the standard EU format known as "foto carnet" in Spanish. This is the same size used across most European countries.

How much does a Spanish passport cost?

A standard Spanish passport costs approximately €30. This fee is paid via Tasa 790-052 form before your appointment.

How long is a Spanish passport valid?

Spanish passports are valid for 5 years if you're under 30, and 10 years if you're 30 or older. Children under 5 receive passports valid for 2 years.

Can I smile in my Spanish passport photo?

No, you must maintain a neutral expression with your mouth closed. This helps biometric systems identify you accurately.

Spanish Passport Photo Requirements