You're planning a fantastic trip to Europe, and you fill out the visa application, but you don't have a photo that fulfills the Schengen visa requirements. This photo for the document has to meet particular rules, but there's no reason to worry. As with the Schengen visa application, you can do everything online without an appointment at the consulate general.
iVisa prepared a photo guide, so you can take a picture to apply for a visa and travel to the Schengen states quickly. Simply review and follow the instructions below, and iVisa Photos will do the rest to ensure that your photo complies with the required documents for the online application.
The iVisa Photos service has processed thousands of passport photographs for many applications and will get it right the first time. So you can submit your application and pack your bags to explore the Old Continent relaxed!
To save yourself some additional time and money, make sure you visit our website to confirm whether you need a visa. iVisa can save you time and money by processing your visa application online.
Countries in Schengen Area
But how do I know if I need a Schengen visa? Well, travelers visiting countries in the Schengen Area need visas to get into the zone. This is a mandatory travel document, so everyone, even minors, has to present it on arrival.
Check the Schengen member states to see if your destination is one of them:
| Austria |
Belgium |
The Czech Republic |
Denmark |
Estonia |
Finland |
| France |
Germany |
Greece |
Hungary |
Iceland |
Italy |
| Latvia |
Liechtenstein |
Lithuania |
Luxembourg |
Malta |
The Netherlands |
| Norway |
Poland |
Portugal |
Slovakia |
Slovenia |
Spain |
| Sweden |
Switzerland |
|
|
|
|
If you're heading to one of these countries, you must submit a Schengen Visa application form. Filling out the visa application only takes a few minutes if you apply using the iVisa services. Read all the instructions below for an applicant to get the perfect visa photo.
Schengen Visa Photo Requirements for your visa application form
The applicant has to follow the instructions below to guarantee a successful visa procedure. The specifications are very standard, so don't worry.
- Size: 45 mm by 35 mm
- Colour: In color. It can't be one colour or black and white; filters aren't accepted.
- Head size and position: Must be facing forward, fully visible. The head should measure 32 mm to 36 mm in the photo.
- Recency: No older than six months.
- Background: Bright colored. Light grey is preferred, with no patterns.
- Smile: None. Use a neutral facial expression. Mouth closed.
- Eyes: Open and centered with the camera, fully visible.
- Glasses: Prescription glasses only so long as the eyes are visible.
- Headgear: Medical or religious reasons.
- Dimensions and size (pixels): 35×45mm.
- Attire, clothing, dress code: Avoid uniforms and colors matching the background.
- Beard: Optional.
- Quantity needed in the application: 2, identical.
Schengen Passport Photo Size Requirements Guide
![Fill me in]()
Schengen Visa: Photo detailed instructions
As with most guidelines, there is more than meets the eye. A glance at the above specifications may seem easy enough, but there are quite a few more items to check before submitting your photographs.
Take a look below to find out more information:
- Your head is limited to how big or small it can be in the image: no less than 32 mm and no more than 36 mm. This is measured from the chin to the top of your head. It should take up around 70-80% of the total picture.
- Keep it focused. Blurred pictures are never accepted and are one of the most common reasons for rejection.
- If you usually have a beard, it's acceptable in a photo. If you don't, don't grow one out for your close-up.
- Hats, fancy jewelry, or any other headpieces not worn for medical or religious reasons are not permitted. Those wearing one for acceptable reasons cannot block any part of your face.
- No sunglasses, tinted lenses, glare, or thick-rimmed glasses are permitted. Your eyes must be clearly visible and not hindered by glasses.
- Keep hair off the face.
- Lighting should be even and reflect your skin's true and natural color. Avoid overexposed, underexposed, or shadowy photographs of the face.
- The background should be a bright color such as gray. Avoid white if possible. No designs, patterns, or objects in the photo.
- Don't smile. It distorts your face. Keep a relaxed look with your mouth closed and your eyes forward.
Rules and requirements for babies, infants, and newborns passport and visa photos
For a family trip, be aware that the entire family, including children, will need their own passport and visa, including a photo. Group shots are never allowed.
Older kids are not as difficult to photograph; however, infants can pose a bit of a challenge. Though, the above guidelines still apply. But there are a few more tricks and advice to getting the desired image quicker:
- You can take the infant's picture in a seat or lying on the floor. Whichever angle you wish to work with, use a gray or light-colored cloth to cover up a car seat or flooring. This will provide a stark contrast between your baby and the background.
- No toys, bottles, blankets, or pacifiers are permitted in the shot.
- If you are holding a child, the hands cannot be seen.
- The child must have both eyes open, looking at the camera, and with their mouth as close as possible. It may take a few shots to get this, but don't give up.
- Be mindful of shadows, head position, and photo exposure. You may find the perfect pose from your child, but it won't be accepted if it is overexposed.
Visa Photo Price and Cost
Where you choose to have these photos done is entirely up to you, your schedule, and how much you are willing to spend. Pictures taken at the post office are always going to be more expensive than alternative methods. It's true.
Since the inception of passport photos, post offices have usually been the place to get them completed. But traveling across town, fighting traffic, and waiting in long, tedious lines is now optional rather than a necessity. Why? The Internet.
Times are changing, and they're changing fast. Governments are getting on board the technological bandwagon and allowing for digital photos and visas. Selecting an online service, such as iVisa Photos, can be cheaper and more comfortable. Much more savings for vacation if you ask us.
iVisa: External service provider to get a photo for Schengen visa
We understand your concerns and hesitations about trying an online service to receive passport or visa photos. At iVisa Photos, we offer a 100% guarantee of government compliance before submission.
Our easy-to-use site guides you through each step. Should you get stuck or have questions, our friendly staff is there to assist you with anything you need. Depending on how quickly you require your photos, we offer in-store pickup at a convenient location for you or immediate download.
The best part about using our services is that we adhere to the above guidelines. All you need to do is use our handy passport photo booth and submit the picture. We do minor edits and check for compliance.
Take the photo at home or the office. Get on with your day, and allow us to get you one step closer to your travels!
Click to get your visa photo with iVisa
