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Country Guides6 min read

Schengen Visa Photo Rules 2026: Requirements & Checklist

Travelling to Europe? Your Schengen visa photo must meet ICAO standards. Here's the complete checklist.

Schengen visa photo specifications

ParameterRequirement
Size35×45 mm
Face height32–36 mm from chin to top
BackgroundLight grey or white (varies by consulate)
ExpressionNeutral, mouth closed
RecencyWithin 6 months
Quantity2 photos (varies by consulate)

Country-specific variations

While the Schengen zone has standardised requirements, individual consulates may have slight preferences:

  • Germany: Strict enforcement, biometric compliance required.
  • France: Light blue or white background accepted.
  • Italy: White background preferred.
  • Spain: White background, recent photo.

When in doubt, use a white background — it's universally accepted.

How to prepare

Take a passport-style photo, then resize with PhotoResizer.in to 35×45 mm equivalent (600×750 px). Use Background Changer for the correct background colour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Schengen visa photo the same size as a passport photo?

Yes. Schengen visa photos and most European passport photos use the same 35×45 mm format with similar biometric requirements.

Can I use a white background for all Schengen countries?

Yes. While some consulates may prefer light grey, white is universally accepted across all Schengen member states.

Ready to resize your photo?

Use our Image Resizer to hit exact KB and pixel targets, or try the Background Color Changer for a perfect white backdrop.