Schengen Visa Photo Maker Online (35x45 mm)
While the 29 Schengen member countries share standardized 35x45mm biometric guidelines (face height between 32mm and 36mm on a light, neutral background), specific submission guidelines can depend on the individual member-state authority or visa application center processing your application.
Official Schengen Area (EU) Passport Photo Requirements
Validated against latest guidelines from Relevant Schengen Member State Consulate / European Commission
35 x 45 mm
1.38 x 1.77 inches
413 x 531 px (at 300 DPI)
70% – 80% of total image height
32 mm – 36 mm from chin to crown
Measured chin to crown
Uniform light grey or light plain background with no patterns or shadows
Must be clean and shadow-free
Clear glasses allowed only without reflections; tinted or colored lenses strictly forbidden
Neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes looking straight at camera lens
Printed as 35x45mm photos on glossy photographic paper
Cost: ~$0.35 at pharmacy
Disclaimer: FreshPassPhoto is an independent photo preparation tool and is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government agency. Requirements can change. Always verify the current requirements published by the relevant passport, visa or government authority before submitting your photo.
Key Biometric Guidelines for Schengen Area (EU)
35 x 45 mm
Accepted by all consulates across the 29 Schengen member states.
32 mm to 36 mm
70% to 80% of the photo must be occupied by the applicant's head.
Light Grey / Off-White
Solid, pattern-free background with clean contrast.
Taken within 6 months
Must accurately represent the applicant's current appearance.
- •Submitting US 2x2 inch photos instead of 35x45mm
- •Using a photo taken more than 6 months ago
- •Smiling or opening mouth
- •Shadows behind ears or on background
- •Eyes covered by thick spectacle frames
How to Make Your Schengen Area (EU) Passport Photo
Snap a clear selfie in daylight
Keep face centered and shoulders squared towards the camera.
Select Schengen Visa in FreshPassPhoto
Our editor scales your photo to 35x45mm with 32–36mm head proportion overlays.
Clean the backdrop to light grey
Instantly eliminate background distractions and ensure consular contrast standards.
Download and print on 4x6" paper
Export digital copy for VFS/TLScontact or print sheet for physical consular submission.
Ready to create your Schengen Area (EU) photo?
Use our free photo maker with pre-configured 35 x 45 mm dimensions. Crop, align, remove background, and download printable sheets in under a minute.
Frequently Asked Questions (Schengen Area (EU))
Is the Schengen visa photo size the same for all member countries?
Yes! Whether applying at the French, German, Italian, Spanish, or Swiss consulate, all 29 Schengen nations use the standardized 35x45mm biometric format.
Can I use a US 2x2 inch photo for a Schengen visa?
No. European consulates require 35x45mm photos. Submitting a 2x2 inch photo can cause your visa appointment or file to be put on hold.