Schengen visa photo (35 × 45 mm)
Every Schengen country uses the 35 × 45 mm ICAO format, with the face taking up 70–80% of the photo height. That means a head of about 32–36 mm from chin to crown.
- 35 × 45 mm
- Plain light grey or white background
Schengen visa photo (35 × 45 mm)
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Requirements
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Schengen visa photo requirements
| Photo size | 35 × 45 mm |
|---|---|
| Pixels at 300 DPI | 413 × 531 px |
| Head height (chin to crown) | 32–36 mm |
| Background | Plain light grey or white |
| Colour | Colour photo, sharp and evenly lit |
Official source: European Commission: applying for a Schengen visa. Rules can change, so check it before you apply.
The rules are shared across the Schengen area, but consulates and visa centres can be picky about the background colour. Light grey and white are both widely accepted. Avoid dark or coloured walls.
You'll normally hand in one printed photo with your application form. Some countries, like Germany and France, take your photo digitally at the appointment instead.
How to take the photo
Find a plain, light wall
Stand about half a metre in front of it so your shadow falls behind you, not on the wall around your head.
Face the light
Daylight from a window in front of you works best. Avoid overhead lights that cast shadows under the eyes.
Have someone take it at eye level
The camera should be about 1.2 m (4 ft) away, level with your eyes. Leave space above your head and include your shoulders.
Crop it here
Add the photo above, check that the top of your head and your chin sit on the red lines, and download.
Tips for this document
- The face should be sharp and evenly lit, with no shadows.
- Look straight at the camera with a neutral expression and your mouth closed.
Common reasons photos are rejected
- Correct
- Head too small
- Head too large
- Head tilted
- Shadow behind
- Busy background
Printing your photos
Download the print sheet and print it at a photo shop, a pharmacy photo counter or at home on photo paper. Choose actual size or 100% in the print settings; “fit to page” shrinks the photos and they will be the wrong size. Cut along the small corner marks so each photo measures exactly 35 × 45 mm.
Questions people ask
Is the Schengen photo size the same for every country?
Yes, 35 × 45 mm. Small differences between consulates are usually about background colour, so check the embassy page you apply through.
Can I smile in a Schengen visa photo?
No. Keep a neutral expression with your mouth closed.