PassportOwl
35×45 mm Rules checked Sep 30, 2026

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.

Take your photo

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
35×45 mm Example that passes

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
Print 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

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.

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