Schengen Area Visa Photo — size, requirements & online maker
A Schengen Area visa photo is 35 × 45 mm, with the head sized at 70–80% of the photo height (the ICAO standard), on a plain light-coloured (light grey or white) background. Below are the official rules — verified from source — and you can turn a selfie into a compliant photo in minutes.
| Photo size | 35 × 45 mm |
|---|---|
| Head size | 70–80% of the photo height (the ICAO standard) |
| Background | Plain light-coloured (light grey or white) |
| Format | Printed 35 × 45 mm on photo-quality paper; ICAO-compliant |
Schengen Area visa photo rules
- No more than 6 months old, in sharp focus and high quality
- Close-up of head and top of shoulders — face fills 70–80% of the photo
- Plain light-coloured background, uniform lighting, no shadows, flash reflections or red-eye
- Look straight at the camera, face square-on, both edges of the face visible
- Neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open and clearly visible
- No head coverings except for religious reasons; glasses only if no glare and frames don't cover the eyes
Make your Schengen Area visa photo now
Upload a selfie — we crop it to 35 × 45 mm, fix the background and lighting, and check it against these rules before you pay. You get a digital file plus print-ready sheets.
Create my Schengen Area photoSpecification verified against European Commission — Applying for a Schengen visa — last checked 25 May 2026. Requirements can change; always confirm with the issuing authority before you submit.