Schengen visa photo: size and rules
A Schengen visa photo is 35 × 45 mm, printed. The head fills 70%–80% of the photo height. Single colour, shadow-free, contrasting with face and hair. Glasses are allowed if there is no glare. Take yours at home with PassportOwl: checked against every rule, accepted or your money back.
Phone camera, webcam, or upload a photo you already have
- Cropped to size and checked against every official rule
- Pay only once it passes · Digital $11.99
- Accepted or your money back, for photo reasons. Terms
Top of head Chin Schengen visa photo requirements
From the official source. We check each one on your photo.
| Photo size | 35 × 45 mm |
|---|---|
| Head size | 70%–80% of the photo height, chin to top of head |
| Background | Single colour, shadow-free, contrasting with face and hair |
| Colour, on matte or glossy photo paper | |
| Glasses | Allowed if there is no glare |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed, both eyes open |
| Head covering | Religious only; chin to forehead visible |
Rules to know
- 35x45 mm biometric photo
- Face 70-80% of photo height
- Mouth closed, eyes visible, no reflections
Source: Schengen visa information - German missions in the US (PDF) , Biometric photo examples (PDF) . Checked Sep 30, 2026. PassportOwl is not affiliated with any government.
Questions
What size is a Schengen visa photo?
35×45 mm (35 × 45 mm). The head fills 70%–80% of the photo height.
Can I use a US passport photo for my Schengen visa?
No. A US passport photo is 2 × 2 inches; the Schengen visa needs 35×45 mm, with a different head size.
Can I take a Schengen visa photo at home?
Yes. Take it with your phone or webcam, or upload one. We crop it to 35×45 mm, check it against every official rule and show you the result before you pay.
Is it guaranteed?
Yes. If the Schengen visa is turned down for a photo reason, we refund you in full and make you a new photo, free.
Can I wear glasses?
Glasses are allowed if there is no glare.