Schengen visa photo: size and rules
The printed Schengen visa photo is 35 × 45 mm (1.38 × 1.77 in).
- Head 32 to 36 mm
Photo specification
| Photo size | 35 × 45 mm (1.38 × 1.77 in) |
|---|---|
| Head, crown to chin | 32 to 36 mm (1.26 to 1.42 in) |
We check sizes and positions; the issuing authority decides acceptance. Last checked 28 Sep 2026. Rules change. Check the issuing authority’s current instructions before you apply.
Background and editing
The source asks for a white or light grey background. The source does not say whether the background may be edited. The safest route is a plain wall at capture. If you replace a background, check the receiving organization’s rules first.
Rules from the source
- Face is 70 to 80 percent of the photo, chin to crown, centred.
- Recent photo, at most six months old; scans and photocopies are refused.
- Even lighting: no shadows on face or background, no red eyes.
- Neutral expression, mouth closed, looking straight into the camera.
- Backgrounds vary: German missions ask for bright neutral grey, Italian ones for white.
Expression, lighting and how recent the photo is cannot be measured from a picture, so check them yourself.
Can you make it at home?
Yes. Each consulate or visa centre sets its own rules, and some insist on professional prints. Check the one handling your application.
PortraitPass frames the photo against the head and eye lines above and exports a single photo or a print sheet, with the measurements shown so you can check them yourself.
Sources
- Schengen visa photo instructions (German embassy)Issuing authority. Checked 28 Sep 2026.
- Checklist for tourism Schengen visa (Italian embassy Nairobi)Issuing authority. Checked 28 Sep 2026.
Found a wrong or outdated number? Open an issue with the source link.
Common questions
What size is a Schengen visa photo?
The printed photo is 35 × 45 mm (1.38 × 1.77 in).
Can I take a Schengen visa photo at home?
Yes. The source accepts a photo you prepare yourself.
What background does a Schengen visa photo need?
The source asks for a white or light grey background.
How big should the head be in a Schengen visa photo?
Measured from the crown to the chin, the head should be 32 to 36 mm (1.26 to 1.42 in).
Where do the Schengen visa numbers come from?
From the issuing authority’s own pages: Schengen visa photo instructions (German embassy) and Checklist for tourism Schengen visa (Italian embassy Nairobi). Last checked 28 Sep 2026.
Guides for this photo
Related documents
Other documents with a 35 × 45 mm print
- India passport (applied in India)35 × 45 mmNot at home
- Pakistan passport online renewal (overseas)35 × 45 mm; original file; up to 5,000 KB
- Pakistan online visa (photo upload)35 × 45 mm; width to height ratio 0.78, up to 350 KB
- UK passport (printed)35 × 45 mm
- Irish passport (printed)35 × 45 mm
- French passport35 × 45 mmNot at home