How to schengen Visa Photo Maker (35×45 mm)
- Take a sharp, evenly lit photo against a plain light background (light grey, light blue or white), facing the camera with a neutral expression.
- Upload it — the Schengen 35×45 mm preset is selected. Zoom and drag until your head is between the guides.
- Download the single photo for online applications, or a 4×6 inch sheet to print at any photo kiosk for a few cents — print at 100% scale, never “fit to page”.
What does this tool do?
Schengen visa photos follow the ICAO standard: 35 mm wide by 45 mm high, with the head (chin to crown) taking up 70–80% of the photo — about 32 to 36 mm. Backgrounds should be plain and light, the photo recent (within 6 months), in colour, and without shadows, glare or red-eye.
The same specification is used for residence permits and national visas in most EU countries, and the photo is usually glued to the application form or uploaded through VFS, TLScontact or BLS portals. Your photos are processed in your browser and never uploaded.
Schengen visa photo requirements
The ICAO-based standard used by Schengen consulates:
| Rule | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Size | 35 × 45 mm (1.38 × 1.77 in) |
| In pixels (300 DPI) | 413 × 531 px |
| Head height | 32–36 mm (70–80% of the photo) |
| Background | Plain light grey, light blue or white |
| Age of photo | Within the last 6 months |
| Glasses | Allowed only without glare or tinted lenses; best removed |
Privacy
Your files are processed entirely in your browser using built-in web technologies. They are not uploaded to our servers, and closing the page clears them from memory. There's no account to create and nothing to install.
Frequently asked questions
Are Schengen photos the same for every country?
Yes — all Schengen states apply the same ICAO photo standard. Some consulates prefer a particular background shade, so check your visa centre's checklist.
How many photos do I need?
Usually one or two. Printing a 4×6 sheet gives you several 35×45 mm photos for a few cents.
Can I wear a headscarf in a Schengen visa photo?
Yes, for religious reasons, as long as your face is fully visible from the bottom of the chin to the top of the forehead and both edges of the face are shown.
Why was my visa photo rejected?
The most common reasons are a head that's too small or too large, shadows on the face or background, glare on glasses, and an old photo. Fit your head between the guides and use even, frontal light.
Last reviewed by the M2Toolkit team.