EU Schengen Visa 35x45 mm (3.5x4.5 cm) Photo Requirements Guide - Official Guidelines

Requirements

• Photo dimensions: exactly 35 mm wide × 45 mm high, no borders or frames
• Head size: crown to chin height between 32 mm and 36 mm, centred vertically
• Background: plain light-coloured (white or off-white), uniform, without shadows or patterns
• Face position: full front view, head centred, eyes level with camera lens
• Expression: neutral, mouth closed, no smile, no raised eyebrows
• Eyes and gaze: fully open, clearly visible, looking directly at the camera
• Glasses: not recommended; if worn, lenses must be clear (no tint), no glare or frame obstruction
• Head coverings: only for religious reasons, must not cover face or cast shadows, hairline visible
• Recent capture: photo taken within the last six months reflecting current appearance
• Color and quality: high-resolution color photo, sharp focus, correct exposure, no red-eye or digital artifacts
• Print medium: high-quality photographic paper (matte or semi-matte), no creases, tears, or ink marks
• Color rendition: natural skin tones, no sepia or black-and-white processing

Step-by-Step Process

Content about EU Schengen Visa 35x45 mm (3.5x4.5 cm) Photo Requirements Guide - process

Tips and Best Practices

• Dimension Precision: Ensure the photo is exactly 35×45 mm with head height 32–36 mm and 3–5 mm forehead margin to comply with biometric requirements and avoid instant digital rejection
• Background Consistency: Use a uniform light grey or white background free of shadows or patterns to ensure facial features are easily distinguishable and prevent manual rejection
• Lighting Control: Position two light sources at 45° angles to eliminate shadows and reflections on the face or glasses, ensuring clear recognition and preventing retakes
• Head Position & Expression: Keep your head centered, eyes level, and maintain a neutral expression with closed mouth to match biometric algorithms and avoid interpretation errors
• Grooming & Accessories: Remove hats, large jewelry, and tinted glasses while wearing clear prescription frames without glare to ensure unobstructed facial recognition and avoid disqualification

Conclusion

In conclusion, adhering to the 35×45 mm Schengen visa photo specifications ensures a smooth application process and avoids costly delays.

Key Points:

• Photo size: exactly 35 mm wide × 45 mm high with straight edges and no borders
• Head dimensions: 32–36 mm from chin to crown, centered vertically and horizontally
• Background: plain, light gray or light blue, uniform with no shadows or patterns
• Facial expression: neutral, mouth closed, eyes open, direct gaze, natural skin tone
• Lighting & quality: even illumination, no glare or shadows, high resolution, matte finish
• Glasses & headwear: no tinted glasses, strict limits on frames, head coverings only for religious reasons if they do not obscure facial features
• Recency & printing: taken within last 6 months, printed on high-quality photo paper or submitted as a compliant digital file

Next Steps: Have your photo professionally taken or use a certified photo service, verify all measurements, and review samples against official templates before submitting to ensure full compliance.