Schengen Visa Photo Requirements 2025

Schengen Visa Photo Specifications

The Schengen Area uses standardized ICAO biometric photo requirements across all member states. These apply whether you're applying at a German, French, Italian, Dutch, or any other Schengen embassy.

Requirement	Specification
Photo size	35 × 45 mm
Head height	70–80% of image height (approximately 32–36 mm)
Background	Plain white or very light grey
Expression	Neutral, mouth closed, eyes open looking directly at camera
Photo age	Taken within last 6 months
Glasses	Not permitted
Head coverings	Only for religious reasons
Quantity	Two identical photos (most applications)

Which Countries Use Schengen Visa Photo Requirements?

All 27 Schengen countries accept the same photo standard:

Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and Croatia.

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PassportSnap produces ICAO biometric-compliant photos accepted at all Schengen embassies and consulates.

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Common Schengen Visa Photo Mistakes

❌ Colored or patterned background

Only white or very light grey is accepted. Any color, pattern, or gradient will cause rejection.

❌ Glasses

No glasses of any kind are permitted under Schengen/ICAO biometric standards.

❌ Head too small

Your head must fill 70–80% of the frame height. This is strictly verified by biometric systems.

❌ Old photo

Photos more than 6 months old are routinely rejected at Schengen visa appointments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Schengen visa photo requirements the same for all countries?

Yes — all 27 Schengen Area countries use the same ICAO biometric photo standard: 35×45 mm, white or light grey background, head filling 70–80% of the frame, no glasses.

Can I use the same photo for multiple Schengen countries?

Yes — if your photo meets Schengen standards, it's valid for any Schengen country visa application, regardless of which embassy or consulate you apply at.

Is Switzerland a Schengen country?

Yes — Switzerland is part of the Schengen Area despite not being an EU member. Swiss visa photo requirements are identical to other Schengen countries.