Passport Photos for Schengen Visa — Exact Specifications

Wrong photos are the #2 reason for immediate Schengen application rejection at VFS counter (before officer even looks at your file). Specifications are precise and strictly enforced.

At a Glance

Document: Passport Photographs
For: Schengen
Visa Type: All
Mistakes: 4 to avoid

Why It Matters Format & Rules Sample / Template Do's & Don'ts Common Mistakes FAQs

Why This Document Matters

Photos must meet ICAO standards (biometric). Rejected photos mean rescheduling your appointment — delays of 2-4 weeks. Professional passport photo studios in India often make mistakes on Schengen specs.

Format & Requirements

Size: 35mm × 45mm Background: Plain WHITE (not off-white, cream, or light blue) Head size: 32-36mm from chin to crown Face: Neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open No glasses, no head covering (except religious — must not hide face) Printed on photo paper, matte finish preferred Quantity: 2 identical photos Date: Taken within 3 months

Sample / Template

Customize before submitting

sample-passport-photos-schengen-visa.pdf

Reliable photo studios for Schengen specs: • Kolkata: Studio 21, Central Photo • Delhi: Classic Photos CP • Mumbai: PhotoStop, Vasant Studios • Bangalore: Focus Photo, Snapshots Request explicitly: 'Schengen/EU biometric photo 35x45mm' At home/mobile apps: • Passport Photo Maker apps (free) • Upload to Instaprint for delivery Crucial checks: • No shadows on face or background • No reflections on glasses (remove glasses ideally) • Hair not covering face edges • Neutral expression (no smile, no teeth visible) • Shirt collar visible, not casual t-shirt

Do's and Don'ts

Do

✓35x45mm exactly (not 4x6 inch)
✓White background only
✓Face fills 70-80% of photo
✓Taken within 3 months
✓Professional matte photo paper

Don't

✕Don't wear spectacles with glare
✕Don't smile or show teeth
✕Don't wear white shirt against white background (disappears)
✕Don't use selfies printed at home
✕Don't accept off-white or cream backgrounds

Common Mistakes That Cause Rejections

Wrong size (passport size 4x6 instead of Schengen 35x45)

Off-white background

Hair covering ears/face

Photo taken over 3 months ago

Stop guessing. Get your passport photographs reviewed by experts.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to submit passport photographs for Schengen visa?+

Yes. Photos must meet ICAO standards (biometric). Rejected photos mean rescheduling your appointment — delays of 2-4 weeks. Professional passport photo studios in India often make mistakes on Schengen specs.

What is the correct format for passport photographs?+

What are common mistakes to avoid in passport photographs?+

Wrong size (passport size 4x6 instead of Schengen 35x45) Off-white background Hair covering ears/face Photo taken over 3 months ago

Can SureshotVisa help me prepare my passport photographs?+

Yes. Our experts review and prepare every document in your visa file — including passport photographs — to embassy standards. Book a free consultation to get started.