Portugal Visa Photo Requirements for Indians 2026

For Indian travelers planning their Portuguese journey, understanding the Portugal visa photo requirements for Indians is crucial for a successful visa application. While the photo specifications follow strict standards regarding size, background, and presentation, adhering to these precise requirements can help ensure your application proceeds smoothly without any delays or rejections.

Portugal Visa Photo Requirements

When applying for a tourist visa as an Indian citizen, it’s crucial to understand the specific Portugal visa photo guidelines based on the visa type:

Note: Even if you apply online, you’ll need to provide physical copies of your photos with your application.

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Portugal Visa Photo Size, Age & Background

To meet the Portugal visa photo size requirements, ensure your photo adheres to the following specifications:

Photo Size in MM

The required Portugal visa photo size is 35 mm wide and 45 mm tall.

Photo Size in CM

In centimeters, the Portugal visa passport photo size should measure 3.5 cm in width and 4.5 cm in height.

Photo Size in Inch

For those using inches, the dimensions are approximately 1.38 inches wide by 1.77 inches tall.

Photo Size in Pixels

When submitting digital photos, ensure they are 826 pixels wide and 1062 pixels tall, at a resolution of 600 dpi.

Age of the Photo

Your photo must be recent, taken within the last 6 months.

Photo Matte or Glossy

The photo must be printed on high-quality paper, but the specific finish (matte or glossy) is not specified.

Colour

Photos must be in full color. Black and white photos are not accepted.

Background

The background must be plain white, with no patterns, shadows, or visible objects.

Lighting

Lighting should be even across the entire photo. Avoid harsh shadows on the face or background.

Facial Appearance/Size

Your face should take up 70-80% of the photo. The distance from your chin to the top of your head should be between 32 mm and 36 mm.

Face Orientation

Face the camera directly with your head straight and level. Both ears should be visible if possible.

Expression

Maintain a neutral expression. Don’t smile or frown. Keep your mouth closed and eyes open, looking directly at the camera.

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Portugal Visa Photo Attire & Accessories

When preparing for your Portugal visa photo, pay close attention to your attire and accessories to ensure compliance with the guidelines:

Attire

Although there is no professional dress code recommended for visa photos, you can wear neat and simple attire. However, it is important to avoid clothes with bold patterns, logos or any distracting designs.

Accessories

Glasses/Spectacles

You should not wear glasses unless they are medically necessary. If you do wear them, make sure there is no glare on the lenses, and your eyes are clearly visible.

Health Accessories

Hearing aids or similar devices are allowed if you use them daily.

Jewelry

Small, non-distracting jewelry is okay. Avoid large earrings or necklaces that cover your face or neck.

Headwear

Religious headwear is allowed but must not cover any part of your face. Your face should be fully visible from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead.

Makeup

Light, natural-looking makeup is acceptable for your Portugal visa photo. Aim for a subtle application that enhances your features without altering your appearance. Avoid heavy eye makeup, such as bold eyeliner or excessive mascara, as well as bright or dark lipstick, which could significantly change the way you look.

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Portugal Visa Photo Requirements for Children under 1 year

Requirements

For babies under 1 year applying for a Portuguese visa, consider the following requirements:

• The baby’s eyes should be open
• The baby should be alone in the photo
• Parents can hold the baby, but their hands should not be visible
• A car seat or blanket can be used for support, but should not be visible in the photo

Portugal Visa Photo Requirements for Children under 10 Years

Requirements

When preparing visa photos for children between 1 and 10 years old, keep these guidelines in mind:

• Eyes must be open and looking at the camera
• The child should have a neutral expression
• No toys or other objects should be in the photo
• Parents should not be visible in the frame
• The background rules are the same as for adults

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Reasons for Portugal Visa Photo Rejections

To avoid delays or rejections in your Portugal visa application, be aware of the common reasons for visa photo rejections:

Outdated Photo

One of the most common reasons for visa photo rejection is submitting an outdated photo. The Portuguese embassy strictly requires that your photo be taken within the last 6 months. This rule ensures that your current appearance matches the photo in your visa application.

If you submit a photo that’s older than 6 months, even if you think you look the same, it will likely be rejected.

Incorrect Photo Size

Another frequent reason for rejection is submitting a photo that doesn’t meet the exact tourist passport size photo Portugal requirements. The Portuguese embassy is very specific about the dimensions of visa photos: 35mm wide by 45mm tall.

This size requirement isn’t just a suggestion – it’s mandatory. Photos that are too small, too large, or have different proportions will be rejected outright.

Improper Background

The background of your visa photo is just as important as the subject. The Portuguese embassy requires a plain, light grey or off-white background. Any deviation from this can lead to rejection.

Common mistakes include photos with textured walls, colored backgrounds, or shadows. The background should be completely uniform to ensure that your face is the focus of the photo.

Incorrect Facial Expression

Your facial expression in the visa photo is crucial, and getting it wrong is a common reason for rejection. The Portuguese embassy requires a neutral expression – not smiling, not frowning, just a relaxed, natural look.

Many applicants make the mistake of smiling, thinking it looks more friendly or natural. However, a smile, even a slight one, can change the shape of your face and eyes, which can cause issues with biometric scanning systems.

Poor Photo Quality

The quality of your visa photo is extremely important, and poor-quality photos are frequently rejected. This includes photos that are blurry, overexposed, underexposed, or have visible pixels. The Portuguese embassy requires high-resolution, sharp images that clearly show all your facial features. Common quality issues include photos taken with low-quality cameras or in poor lighting conditions.

Obstructed Facial Features

Any obstruction of your facial features in the visa photo can lead to rejection. This is a common issue that many applicants overlook. Your entire face must be clearly visible from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead, and from ear to ear. Common problems include hair covering the eyes or face, large jewelry obscuring parts of the face, or sunglasses.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the standard size for visa photos for Indian citizens in Portugal?

The standard size for Portugal visa photos is 35 mm in width and 45 mm in height.

Can I use a photo with a coloured background for my Portugal visa application?

Only a plain white background is acceptable for Portugal visa applications, as per official Schengen guidelines to ensure that your features are distinguishable and contrast against the background.

Are glasses allowed in visa photos?

Yes, glasses are allowed in visa photos, but with conditions:

• You may wear non-tinted eyeglasses if you normally wear them.
• The frames must not obscure any part of your eyes.
• There should be no shadows or reflections from the lenses.

What facial expression should I have in my visa photo?

Your facial expression should be neutral. You must:

• Look straight at the camera.
• Keep your head straight and not tilted.
• Have a non-smiling expression with your mouth closed and eyes open.

What should I do if my visa photo is rejected?

If your visa photo is rejected:

• You will be asked to take new photographs.
• You can use the photo booth available at the visa application centre to ensure the photos meet the requirements.

Are there specific requirements for infant visa photos?

Yes, there are specific requirements for infant visa photos:

• The baby must face directly towards the camera
• You can place the baby on a white sheet if they cannot stand
• A neutral expression is required
• Parents can assist in holding the baby, but must not be visible
• The same size and quality requirements apply as for adult photos

Disclaimer: Visa requirements can change over time. While we strive to provide the most current information, it’s always best to verify the latest Portugal visa photo requirements directly with the Portuguese embassy or consulate before submitting your application.