Schengen Visa Photo Size & Requirements (Updated Guide)

For Indian travelers planning their European journey, understanding the Schengen 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.

Schengen Visa Photo Requirements

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

Schengen Visa Photo Size, Age & Background

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

Photo Size in MM

The Schengen visa passport photo size must be exactly 35 mm wide and 45 mm tall.

Photo Size in CM

In centimeters, the photo sizes of Schengen visa should be 3.5 cm wide and 4.5 cm tall.

Photo Size in Inch

For those used to inches, the photo should measure 1.38 inches in width and 1.77 inches in height.

Photo Size in Pixels

While there’s no official pixel requirement, a high-quality digital photo should be about 413 x 531 pixels for best results.

Age of the Photo

Your photo must be recent, taken within the last 6 months. This ensures it accurately represents your current appearance.

Photo Matte or Glossy

Glossy photos are not specifically banned, but they can cause glare and reflections that may affect the quality of the image. It’s recommended to use matte or semi-matte finishes for your Schengen visa photo, as these finishes help avoid such issues while ensuring the image meets the quality standards.

Colour

Only colored photos are accepted for Schengen visa applications. Black and white photos are not allowed.

Background

The background of your photo is very important. It should be plain and light-colored (preferably white or light grey), free from any patterns, objects, or shadows, and evenly lit without any dark corners or areas. The background should be in clear contrast with your face and clothes.

Lighting

Good lighting is key to follow a successful Schengen visa photo guidelines. Ensure even, balanced lighting across your face and the background, with no harsh shadows on your face or behind you. Avoid over-exposure or under-exposure, and ensure your natural skin tone is represented. Soft, diffused lighting works best, and avoid using flash as it can create harsh shadows or red-eye effect.

Facial Appearance/Size

Your face should take up a specific portion of the photo. The face height (from chin to crown) should be between 70% to 80% of the total photo height, which means your face should measure between 31.5 mm to 36 mm from bottom to top. Make sure your entire head, including hair, is visible in the photo.

Face Orientation

Make sure your face is fully visible in the photo, facing the camera directly with your head straight (not tilted or turned). It’s okay if your ears are covered naturally by hair, as long as there are no obstructions blocking your face. Keep your head centered in the frame.

Expression

Your expression in the photo matters. Maintain a neutral expression, keep your mouth closed (no smiling or frowning), look directly at the camera, keep your eyes open and clearly visible, and ensure your gaze is straight ahead.

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Schengen Visa Photo Attire & Accessories

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

Attire

When it comes to clothing in your Schengen visa photo, wear everyday clothing (casual or formal is fine), avoid white or very light-colored tops as they may blend with the background, and remember that uniforms are not allowed, except for religious clothing worn daily. Ties and bow-ties are acceptable but not required.

Accessories

Glasses/Spectacles

If you wear glasses, ensure they don’t cover your eyes, there should be no glare or reflection on the lenses, and tinted or transitional lenses are not allowed. If possible, consider removing glasses for the photo.

Health Accessories

Health accessories like hearing aids are allowed as long as they don’t obscure any part of your face and are items you wear daily.

Jewelry

When it comes to jewelry, keep it minimal, avoid large earrings or necklaces that may distract from your face, and ensure no part of your face is covered by jewelry.

Headwear

Headwear rules are strict. Generally, hats and caps are not allowed. Religious headwear worn daily is permitted, but it must not cover or cast shadows on your face. Your full face must be visible from bottom of chin to top of forehead.

Makeup

Regarding makeup and hair, keep makeup natural and minimal, avoid heavy eye makeup or bright lipstick, and remember that fake eyelashes are discouraged as they may alter your appearance. Hair wigs are allowed if worn daily, and colored hair is acceptable as long as it’s your current everyday look.

Suggested Read: Schengen Visa Extension for Indian

Schengen Visa Photo Requirements for Children under 1 year

Requirements

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

• The baby should be alone in the photo
• Eyes can be closed (it’s okay if the baby is sleeping)
• The baby’s mouth should be closed
• No visible support like chairs or car seats
• Parents’ hands can support the baby but should not be visible in the photo
• A white sheet can be used as a background if needed

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Schengen 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:

• The child must be alone in the photo
• Eyes must be open and looking at the camera
• A neutral expression is required (no smiling or frowning)
• No toys or other objects should be visible
• Parents should not be in the photo
• For very young children, invisible support (like a hand under a white sheet) is allowed if necessary.

Suggested Read: Schengen Visa Rejection For Indian

Reasons for Schengen Visa Photo Rejections

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

Incorrect Photo Size or Crop

One of the most common reasons for Schengen visa photo rejection is incorrect size or poor cropping. The photo must be exactly 35mm x 45mm, with the face taking up 70-80% of the height.

Many applicants make the mistake of submitting photos that are too small, too large, or improperly cropped. Remember, your entire head, from the bottom of your chin to the top of your hair, must be visible.

Poor Photo Quality or Resolution

Another frequent cause of rejection for tourist passport size photo Schengen is poor quality or low resolution. This can happen when applicants try to save money by using home printers or low-quality cameras.

The Schengen visa photo must be sharp, clear, and of high resolution to show all facial features in detail. Signs of poor quality include blurriness, pixelation, over or underexposure, and unnatural skin tones.

Incorrect Background or Lighting

The background and lighting of your Schengen visa photo are crucial elements that many applicants overlook. The background must be plain, light-colored (preferably white or light grey), and free from any patterns, shadows, or objects.

Lighting should be even and natural, illuminating your face clearly without creating shadows or harsh contrasts. Avoid using flash photography as it can cause red-eye or create unflattering shadows.

Incorrect Facial Expression or Pose

Your facial expression and pose in a Schengen visa photo must meet specific criteria. Many applications are rejected because the applicant is smiling, looking away from the camera, or has their head tilted.

The correct pose and expression include a neutral facial expression (not smiling, frowning, or opening your mouth), looking directly at the camera, and keeping your head straight and level (not tilted or turned).

Inappropriate Attire or Accessories

What you wear in your Schengen visa photo can also lead to rejection if it doesn’t meet the guidelines. Potential issues include wearing sunglasses or tinted lenses, heavy makeup that alters your appearance, large jewelry that distracts from your face, and headwear (unless worn for religious reasons daily).

If you must wear headwear for religious reasons, ensure it doesn’t cast shadows on your face or cover any facial features. Your face must be fully visible from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead.

Suggested Read: How To Check Schengen Visa Status In India

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the standard size for visa photos for Indian citizens in Schengen Area countries?

The standard Schengen visa passport photo size for Indian citizens is 35mm x 45mm. The face should occupy 70-80% of the photo, with the head covering 32-36mm from forehead to chin. This size is mandatory for all applicants, regardless of nationality.

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

No, you cannot use a photo with a colored or patterned background for your Schengen visa application. The background should be lightly colored, preferably light gray, white, or off-white. It must be plain and uniform, without any shadows, marks, or patterns.

Are glasses allowed in visa photos?

Glasses are allowed in Schengen visa photos, but with specific conditions:

• The glasses must be fully transparent and not tinted
• Frames should not obscure any part of your eyes
• There should be no distortion or reflection from the glasses. In case of reflection, it is recommended to remove them

What facial expression should I have in my visa photo?

For your Schengen visa photo, you should have a neutral facial expression:

• Your mouth should be closed.
• You should not be smiling, frowning, or showing any other expressions.
• Your eyes should be open and clearly visible, looking directly at the camera.

What should I do if my visa photo is rejected?

If your visa photo is rejected, you need to submit a new photo that meets all specified requirements. Failure to provide a compliant photo may result in delays or the need to reapply for your visa.

Are there specific requirements for infant visa photos?

Yes, there are relaxed rules for infants and young children:

• Under 6 months: Can be photographed lying down or sitting. Background must be single-color. No visible support. Eyes may be closed or not looking at the camera.
• Under 5 years: Neutral expression not required. Head doesn’t need to be straight. Eye color should be visible.

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