Schengen Visa Photo Size & Requirements (2025): VFS Guidelines & Specifications

Schengen Visa Photo Size & Requirements: VFS Guidelines & Specifications (2025)

A Schengen visa photo is a critical component of your visa application. All applicants must submit photographs that adhere to strict size, format, and background requirements established by Schengen embassies and VFS Global centers. Submitting a photo that does not meet these specifications can result in immediate rejection, processing delays, or the need to reschedule your visa appointment.

Below is a comprehensive guide covering the official Schengen visa photo size requirements, including precise dimensions in both inches and millimeters, background color rules, VFS guidelines, and practical tips to ensure your photo is accepted.

Schengen Visa Photo Requirements: Official Guidelines

Every Schengen country enforces rigorous photo specifications for visa applications. Meeting these standards is essential to avoid delays or denial of your application.

Key Schengen Visa Photo Requirements

• Number of Photos: You must submit two identical, recent color photos, taken within the last six months.

• Photo Size: Each photo must measure exactly 35 mm in width and 45 mm in height (1.38 x 1.77 inches).

• Color: Only color photos are accepted—black and white photos are not allowed.

• Background Color: The background must be plain, white or light gray, with no patterns, objects, or shadows. Vibrant colors, blue, green, or patterned backgrounds are strictly prohibited.

• Facial Position: The applicant’s full face must be visible, centered, and looking directly at the camera. The head and neck should occupy 70–80% of the photo (approximately 32–36 mm in height).

• Facial Expression: A neutral expression is required—no smiling, frowning, or raised eyebrows. The mouth must be closed, and eyes open and clearly visible.

• Glasses: Glasses are only permitted for medical reasons. If worn, there must be no reflections, glare, or tinted lenses, and the frames must not cover the eyes.

• Clothing and Accessories: Uniforms, headgear, or accessories are not allowed, except for religious or medical reasons. Religious headwear is permitted as long as the face is fully visible from chin to forehead and it does not cast shadows.

• Photo Quality: The image must be sharp, well-lit, and in focus, with no overexposure, underexposure, or red-eye. The photo should be printed on high-quality matte or glossy paper, free of creases or damage.

• No Digital Alterations: The photo must not be digitally edited or retouched. Blurred, altered, or low-contrast images will be rejected.

• Recency: The photo must have been taken within the last six months to accurately reflect your current appearance.

Why Incorrect Passport Photos Lead to Visa Rejections

Submitting an incorrect passport photo is one of the most common reasons for visa application rejections, especially for Schengen visas. Embassies and VFS Global centers enforce strict requirements for passport photos, including precise size, background color, and facial expression standards. If your photo does not meet these specifications, your application may be rejected immediately, regardless of the quality of your other documents.

One of the primary issues is submitting a photo that does not match the required dimensions. Schengen visa photos must be exactly 35 mm by 45 mm, and any deviation from this size will result in your application being refused. Consular staff use automated systems to scan and verify photo sizes, so even a minor discrepancy can trigger a rejection.

The background color is another critical factor. Schengen regulations require a plain, white or light gray background with no patterns, shadows, or objects visible. A photo taken against a colored, patterned, or dark background will not be accepted. Shadows or objects in the background can obscure facial features and interfere with biometric recognition, leading to delays or outright refusal of your application.

Photo clarity and authenticity are also essential. Blurred, pixelated, or low-resolution images are not acceptable, as they make it difficult for officials to verify your identity. Additionally, photos that have been digitally altered—such as those with filters, retouching, or edited backgrounds—will be rejected. The purpose of these strict rules is to ensure that the photo is a true and accurate representation of your current appearance, which is crucial for identification and security purposes.

Facial expression is another point of scrutiny. Schengen visa photos require a neutral expression, with your mouth closed and eyes open, looking directly at the camera. Smiling, frowning, or any exaggerated facial expression will lead to the photo being deemed invalid. This uniformity helps ensure that biometric systems can accurately match the photo with your face during border checks.

Schengen Visa Photo Size: Dimensions & Format

The photo size for Schengen visa applications is standardized across all Schengen member states, ensuring uniformity and compatibility with biometric systems.

Schengen Visa Passport Photo Size Specifications

• Resolution: At least 600 dpi for digital submissions, ensuring all facial features are clearly visible.

• Format: Printed photos must be on high-quality matte or glossy paper, with no borders, creases, or damage. Digital photos (if accepted) should be in JPEG or JPG format.

• Head Position: The head must be centered and upright, with both sides of the face visible. Leave a small space above the head and on each side.

• Shoulders: The upper part of the shoulders may be visible, but the focus must remain on the face.

Tip: Always ask your photo studio for a “Schengen size photo” to ensure compliance with these precise requirements1.

Schengen Visa Photo Requirements (VFS & Embassy Standards)

Schengen embassies and VFS Global centers both require visa applicants to submit photographs that meet a set of standardized specifications, ensuring consistency and security across all Schengen countries. The core requirements are uniform throughout the Schengen Area, but it is important to recognize that some consulates may introduce minor variations or additional guidelines depending on local practices or updated regulations. Therefore, applicants should always consult the specific embassy or VFS center’s website before submitting their application to confirm they are following the most current requirements.

• VFS Global centers require the standard Schengen visa photo size (35 mm x 45 mm).

• Some consulates may have additional rules, so verify before submission.

Background Color & Other Photo Specifications

When preparing your Schengen visa photo, the background color and related specifications are particularly important, as they play a crucial role in ensuring that your facial features are captured clearly and can be easily analyzed by both human officials and biometric systems. The background must be neutral and light-colored, which means only plain white or light gray backgrounds are considered acceptable by Schengen embassies and VFS Global centers. This uniformity eliminates distractions and shadows, making your face the sole focus of the image.

• Required Background Color: Only white or light gray backgrounds are accepted. No patterns, objects, or shadows are allowed.

• No Digital Editing: Do not alter the background or use digital enhancements, as this will result in rejection.

Additional Photo Rules

• Head Position: Face the camera directly, with eyes open and visible, and head centered.

• Jewelry & Accessories: Avoid large earrings, facial piercings, or excessive makeup. Minimal jewelry is acceptable if it does not obscure facial features.

• Headgear: Only permitted for religious or medical reasons. The face must remain fully visible from chin to forehead.

Tip: If you wear glasses, ensure there is no glare or reflection, and the frames do not cover your eyes

Key Schengen Visa Photo Requirements

✔ Schengen visa passport photo size: Must meet standard dimensions.
✔ Background color: Must be white or light gray with no patterns.
✔ Facial position: Full face must be visible, neutral expression, and looking directly at the camera.
✔ Glasses: Only permitted if required for medical reasons (no reflections or tinted lenses).
✔ Clothing: No uniforms, headgear, or accessories, except for religious reasons.

Why Incorrect Passport Photos Lead to Visa Rejections

❌ Using the wrong Schengen size photo can result in immediate rejection.
❌ If the Schengen visa photo background color is incorrect, the application may be delayed.
❌ A blurred or edited photo will not be accepted by VFS or embassy officials.

The photo size for Schengen visa applications is standardized across all Schengen member states.

Schengen Visa Passport Photo Size Specifications

✔ Size: 35 mm x 45 mm (standard Schengen visa photo size in inches: 1.38 x 1.77 inches).
✔ Head height: The face must cover 70–80% of the photo (approximately 32–36 mm).
✔ Resolution: At least 600 dpi, with clear visibility of all facial features.
✔ Format: High-quality matte or glossy print, with no creases or damage.

💡 Tip: If you are unsure about the Schengen photo size, ask the photo studio for a “Schengen size photo” to ensure compliance.

While Schengen embassies and VFS Global centers follow the same Schengen visa photo requirements, some consulates may apply additional guidelines.

Differences Between VFS Schengen Visa Photo Requirements & Embassy Rules

✔ VFS Global centers follow the standard Schengen visa photo size (35mm x 45mm).
✔ Some Schengen embassies may request a slightly different photo specification for Schengen visa.
✔ Shanghai visa photo size differs slightly from the Schengen visa passport photo size.

💡 Tip: If applying through VFS, ensure you meet their Schengen visa photo requirements VFS to avoid issues.

The Schengen visa photo background color must be neutral and light-colored to ensure facial features are clearly visible.

Additional Photo Rules

✔ Head position: The applicant must face the camera directly, with eyes open and visible.
✔ Facial expression: A neutral expression (no smiling, frowning, or raised eyebrows).
✔ Jewelry & accessories: Avoid large earrings, piercings, or excessive makeup.
✔ Glasses: Only permitted if required for medical reasons, and the lenses must be clear.

💡 Tip: If you wear glasses, ensure there is no glare or reflection, as this could result in rejection.

Many applicants wonder if they can take their own Schengen visa passport photo or if they need to visit a professional studio.

Best Practices for Taking a Schengen Visa Passport Photo

✔ Use a high-resolution camera or visit a professional photo studio.
✔ Stand in front of a plain white or light gray background.
✔ Ensure proper lighting (no overexposure or shadows).

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Using incorrect Schengen photo size (ensure 35mm x 45mm is used).
❌ Submitting a selfie or low-quality digital photo.
❌ Wearing colored contact lenses, sunglasses, or head coverings (except for religious purposes).

💡 Tip: Always check photo specification for Schengen visa before submitting your application.

To help applicants meet the correct Schengen photo size, here is a breakdown of photo dimensions in different formats:

💡 Tip: If applying for a Shanghai visa, check the Shanghai visa photo size (33 mm x 48 mm), as it differs from the Schengen size.

1. What is the official Schengen visa photo size?

✔ The Schengen visa passport photo size must be 35 mm x 45 mm (1.38 x 1.77 inches).

2. Can I wear glasses in my Schengen visa photo?

✔ Only if medically necessary—no tinted lenses, reflections, or glare allowed.

3. What is the required background color for a Schengen visa photo?

✔ The background color must be white or light gray.

4. Can I submit a digital passport photo for a Schengen visa?

✔ Some Schengen embassies accept digital submissions, but it must meet official photo specifications.

5. Are Schengen visa photo requirements the same for all countries?

✔ The standard photo size for Schengen visas applies to all countries, but some embassies have minor variations.

✔ Ensure your photo meets VFS Schengen visa photo requirements before submission.
✔ Use a white or light gray background, with no shadows or reflections.
✔ Do not edit or digitally alter the photo, as this will lead to rejection.
✔ If applying for other European visas, check Europe visa photo requirements, as they may differ.

By following these Schengen visa photo guidelines, you can avoid common mistakes and ensure your visa application is accepted without issues.