ID Photos

Schengen Visa Photo: EU Visa Code Requirements

Schengen visa photo rules (EU Visa Code): 35×45mm, light grey background, head 32–36mm. All 29 countries. Preview free — HD download $1, print sheet $2.

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Official Requirements (EU Visa Code Regulation EC 810/2009)

  • Size: 35×45mm
  • Head height (chin to crown): 32–36mm
  • Head occupies approximately 70–80% of photo area
  • Background: Plain light — light grey recommended (NOT pure white)
  • Expression: Neutral, mouth closed, eyes open and looking at camera
  • Quantity: 2 identical photos, taken within last 6 months
  • Quality: High-quality photographic paper, printed at ≥600 DPI

All 29 Schengen Countries Use the Same Requirements

The photo requirements are unified across: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland.

Country-Specific Passport Photo Sizes

Note: Individual country national passports may differ from the standard Schengen visa format:

  • Spain passport: 26×32mm (different from Schengen standard!)
  • Greece passport: 40×60mm (larger than standard)
  • Germany/France/Italy/Netherlands: 35×45mm (standard)

Source

Source: EU Visa Code Reg (EC) No 810/2009 (https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/ALL/?uri=celex%3A32009R0810), verified 2026-07-17.

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FAQ

Are Schengen visa photo requirements the same for all countries?
Yes. All 29 Schengen Area countries use the same photo requirements based on the EU Visa Code (Regulation EC 810/2009): 35×45mm, light grey background, 32–36mm head height.
What background color for Schengen visa photo?
The recommended background is light grey. The UK accepts a plain light-coloured background, while the US requires white or off-white. Pure white is acceptable but light grey is officially recommended for Schengen.
How many photos do I need for a Schengen visa?
You need 2 identical photos taken within the last 6 months.