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

A Schengen visa photo is a mandatory document required for all visa applications. The photo must meet specific size, format, and background color requirements set by embassies and VFS Global centers to ensure uniformity and security. Submitting an incorrect passport photo for a Schengen visa can lead to rejection, delays, or even the need to schedule a new visa appointment.

In this guide, we will cover Schengen visa photo size requirements, including photo dimensions in inches and millimeters, background color, and VFS guidelines. We will also provide tips on how to take a correct visa photo and avoid common mistakes.

1. Schengen Visa Photo Requirements: Official Guidelines

Each Schengen country follows strict photo specifications for visa applications. Ensuring that your photo for a Schengen visa meets these requirements is essential to avoid delays in processing.

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.

2. Schengen Visa Photo Size: Dimensions & Format

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.

Schengen Visa Photo Size Comparison	Millimeters (mm)	Inches
Schengen Visa Photo Size (2025)	35 mm x 45 mm	1.38 x 1.77 in
Shanghai Visa Photo Size	33 mm x 48 mm	1.3 x 1.89 in
Europe Visa Photo Requirements	Varies by country	Varies by country

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

3. Schengen Visa Photo Requirements (VFS & Embassy Standards)

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.

4. Background Color & Other Photo Specifications

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

Required Schengen Visa Photo Background Color

✔ White or light gray background only.
✔ No patterns, objects, or shadows in the background.
✔ No photo editing or digital alterations.

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.

5. How to Take a Correct Photo for a Schengen Visa?

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.

6. Schengen Visa Photo Size in Inches, Millimeters & Pixels

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

Measurement	Schengen Visa Photo Size
Millimeters (mm)	35 mm x 45 mm
Inches (in)	1.38 in x 1.77 in
Pixels (px)	413 x 531 px (minimum 600 dpi)

💡 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.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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.

Tips for a Perfect Schengen Visa Photo

✔ 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.