Schengen visa photo
35 × 45 mm · 413 × 531 px · head 31.5–36 mm · plain and light-coloured
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- Stand in front of a plain, light wall in even daylight.
- Ask someone to take it from about 4 ft (1.2 m) away, at face height.
- Look straight at the camera. Take off glasses and hats.
How to get a Schengen visa photo that passes
- 01
Take the photo
Stand about 2 ft (60 cm) in front of a plain, light wall. Ask someone to take the photo from about 4 ft (1.2 m) away with the camera at face height. Use daylight from a window in front of you, not overhead light. Take off your glasses, keep both eyes open and your mouth closed.
- 02
Check the crop
The tool finds your face, sizes your head and makes the background plain automatically. If a check turns amber or red, drag or zoom until it turns green.
- 03
Download or print
Download the digital photo for online forms, or the 4 × 6 in sheet to print at a photo kiosk. Print at actual size and cut along the grey lines.
| Photo size | 35 × 45 mm |
|---|---|
| Head height | 31.5–36 mm |
| Background | Plain and light-coloured |
| Our download | 413 × 531 px |
| Face size | Head and top of shoulders, face 70–80% of the photo |
| Width | 35–40 mm |
| Taken | Within the last 6 months |
| Glasses | Frames must not cover your eyes, no reflections |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed, looking at the camera |
| Standard | ICAO Doc 9303, required by the EU Visa Code |
| Source | European Commission: Photograph guidelines (ICAO) |
| Last verified |
Questions people ask
What size is a Schengen visa photo?
35–40 mm wide, usually printed at 35 × 45 mm. It must be a close-up of your head and the top of your shoulders, with your face taking up 70–80% of the photo.
Is the photo the same for every Schengen country?
Yes. The EU Visa Code requires the same ICAO standard for all Schengen countries. Some consulates and visa centres add small extras, so check your appointment letter too.
What background is allowed?
A plain, light-coloured background with no pattern or objects. White or light grey both work well.
Can I wear glasses?
Yes, if the frames don't cover your eyes and there's no glare on the lenses. Taking them off is the safest choice.
How do I print it?
Download the 4 × 6 in sheet and print it at actual size at a photo kiosk or print shop, on photo paper with no borders or cropping. Then cut along the grey lines.