PHOTO GUIDE
Schengen Visa Photo Requirements Summary
A quick summary of the standard photo specifications for Schengen visa applications. Use this checklist as a general reference.
Last Updated: June 2026
Quick Answer
- 35 × 45 mm
- 70% to 80% of the photo height (32 to 36 mm)
- Taken within the last 6 months
- Spain from US is a notable exception: BLS International centers require 2 × 2 inch (51 × 51 mm) photos.
Schengen visa photo size at a glance
A quick summary of the common photo specifications for Schengen visa applications. Use this checklist as a general reference, then confirm the exact values for your route.
- Print Size: 35 x 45 mm (most common format)
- Head Size (Height): about 70-80% of the photo height (roughly 32-36 mm)
- Face Position: centered, looking straight ahead, neutral expression
- Recency: taken within the last 6 months
35 x 45 mm is common, but not the only route
Several European official sources use 35 x 45 mm or very close biometric dimensions. France-Visas describes a photo around 35-40 mm wide with the face taking 70-80% of the photograph, while Dutch government guidance uses 35 x 45 mm with detailed face width and face length checks.
Some submission routes use different wording or sizes. For example, BLS Spain Visa USA New York lists 2 x 2 inch photos for a tourist visa route. Check the page for your actual country, jurisdiction, and appointment center before printing.
Official Sources First
Always check the specific guidelines from the official embassy, consulate, or authorized visa center (like VFS Global, TLScontact, or BLS International) of your destination country. Requirements may differ based on local submission policies, digital portal specifications, and application location.
This app helps users prepare photo files based on publicly available requirements. It does not submit visa applications, and it is not an official government service, Schengen authority, embassy, consulate, VFS Global, TLScontact, or BLS International service. Please verify the latest requirements with the official embassy, consulate, or visa application center before submitting.
Common Schengen Visa Photo Mistakes to Avoid
Many visa applications are delayed or rejected due to minor photo errors. Avoid these common mistakes:
Submitting a 2 × 2 inch photo when a 35 × 45 mm photo is required (or vice versa).
Backgrounds with patterns, textures, household objects, or strong color variations.
Uneven lighting causing shadows across the face, nose, or background.
Glare or thick frames obscuring the eyes. Removing glasses is highly recommended.
Why Use the Schengen Visa Photo App?
Align your eyes, head, and chin easily with the interactive overlay guide.
Format your photo for the most common Schengen visa proportions, or switch to the Spain from US 2 × 2 inch preset.
Save a 4 × 6 inch or L-size layout formatted for local printing at actual size.
Your personal photo remains securely on your iPhone and is never sent to a server.
Note: This app is a helper tool to prepare your photo files. It does not submit your visa application and does not guarantee official approval. Always consult the official guidelines from the relevant embassy, consulate, or visa application center.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What size is a Schengen visa photo?
The most common physical size is 35 × 45 mm (3.5 × 4.5 cm). For digital uploads, pixel requirements vary depending on the country's online application system. Some centers (e.g., Spain from US via BLS) require 2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm) instead.
Is 35 × 45 mm always required for Schengen visas?
35 × 45 mm is the most common format, but exceptions exist. Spain's BLS centers in the US require 2 × 2 inch (51 × 51 mm) photos. Always check with the specific embassy, consulate, or visa application center.
Why does Spain from US use 2 × 2 inch photos?
Spain's visa application centers in the United States, operated by BLS International, require US passport-size photos (2 × 2 inches / 51 × 51 mm) rather than the standard Schengen 35 × 45 mm. This is a location-specific exception. Always verify with BLS or the Spanish consulate.
Can I use a passport photo for a Schengen visa?
Only if the passport photo meets Schengen requirements, including the correct size (usually 35 × 45 mm) and being taken within the last 6 months. For example, a US passport photo (2 × 2 inches) does not meet the standard Schengen 35 × 45 mm requirement, but is accepted for Spain from US applications.
Official and submission sources
- France-Visas - Photo FAQ Checked: 2026-06-30
- France-Visas - Photograph quality PDF Checked: 2026-06-30
- Government.nl - Requirements for ID photos Checked: 2026-06-30
- BLS Spain Visa USA - New York tourist visa photo specification Checked: 2026-06-30
This app helps users prepare photo files based on publicly available requirements. It does not submit visa applications, and it is not an official government service, Schengen authority, embassy, consulate, VFS Global, TLScontact, or BLS International service. Please verify the latest requirements with the official embassy, consulate, or visa application center before submitting.
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Prepare your Schengen visa photo on your phone
Create photo files for common Schengen visa requirements using your iPhone. Formatted for printing or digital export.
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