Schengen Visa Photo Requirements (for Indian Applicants)
| Size | 35×45mm (rectangular, NOT square) |
| Background | Plain white or light grey |
| Glasses | Not permitted |
| Head coverage | 70-80% of photo height |
| Same for all | All 27 Schengen countries |
⚠️ Different from Indian passport (51×51mm)—the #1 reason for rejections.
Schengen Visa Photo Requirements for Indian Applicants
Planning to visit Europe? Whether it's France, Germany, Italy, Spain, or any of the 27 Schengen countries, you need the same photo format. Here's exactly what you need—and the critical difference from Indian documents.
⚠️ Size Matters
Schengen visa photos are 35×45mm (rectangular). Indian passport photos are 51×51mm (square). This is the most common rejection reason for Indian applicants—don't make this mistake.
Same Photo for All Schengen Countries
The 35×45mm photo requirement applies to all Schengen member states:
Austria • Belgium • Bulgaria • Croatia • Czech Republic • Denmark • Estonia • Finland • France • Germany • Greece • Hungary • Iceland • Italy • Latvia • Liechtenstein • Lithuania • Luxembourg • Malta • Netherlands • Norway • Poland • Portugal • Romania • Slovakia • Slovenia • Spain • Sweden • Switzerland
Apply once for access to all. One photo format works everywhere.
Photo Size Comparison
| Document | Size | Shape |
|---|---|---|
| Schengen Visa | 35×45mm | Rectangular |
| UK Visa | 35×45mm ✓ | Rectangular |
| Indian Passport | 51×51mm ✗ | Square |
| US Visa | 51×51mm ✗ | Square |
Good news: If you have a recent UK visa photo, you can reuse it for Schengen—they're the same size. Both are 35×45mm.
Detailed Schengen Photo Requirements
Size: 35×45mm (rectangular)
Taller than wide—different from Indian passport photos. This is the ICAO-compliant European standard.
Face coverage: 70-80% of photo height
Head (from chin to crown) must measure 32-36mm. More tightly cropped than Indian photos.
Background: Plain white or light grey
No patterns, shadows, or other people. Our tool automatically replaces any background with compliant white.
No glasses
Glasses are not permitted—even clear prescription lenses. Remove all eyewear before taking your photo.
Neutral expression, looking at camera
Mouth closed, both eyes open and clearly visible. No smiling with teeth showing.
Recent (within 6 months)
Must reflect your current appearance. If you've changed significantly, take a new photo.
Where to Apply in India
Schengen visa applications are processed through:
VFS Global
For: France, Germany, Austria, Belgium, Netherlands, Switzerland, Sweden, Portugal, Greece, Hungary, and more
Photo service: ₹250-350 on-site
BLS International
For: Italy, Spain, and some other countries
Photo service: ₹200-300 on-site
Check which agency handles your destination country. Both accept the same 35×45mm photo format.
Where to Get Schengen Visa Photos in India
- VFS Global / BLS International: Available at your biometric appointment (35×45mm guaranteed)
- Local photo studios: Specify "Schengen visa 35×45mm"—many default to Indian passport size
- Online tools: Upload a selfie, get formatted 35×45mm photo
Tip: UK and Schengen visas use the same 35×45mm format. If you have a recent UK visa photo (within 6 months), you can reuse it for Schengen.
Popular Schengen Destinations from India
🇫🇷
France
VFS Global
🇩🇪
Germany
VFS Global
🇮🇹
Italy
BLS International
🇪🇸
Spain
BLS International
🇳🇱
Netherlands
VFS Global
🇨🇭
Switzerland
VFS Global
Frequently Asked Questions
What size photo do I need for Schengen visa from India?
Schengen visa photos must be 35×45mm—a rectangular format, different from Indian passport photos (51×51mm square). This size is standardized across all 27 Schengen countries.
Are Schengen visa photo requirements the same for all countries?
Yes. Whether you're applying for a visa to France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, or any other Schengen country, the photo requirements are identical: 35×45mm, white background, no glasses.
Can I use my Indian passport photo for Schengen visa?
No. Indian passport photos are 51×51mm (square), while Schengen visas require 35×45mm (rectangular). You need a separate photo taken to Schengen specifications.
Can I wear glasses in my Schengen visa photo?
No. Glasses are not permitted in Schengen visa photos. Remove all eyewear before taking your photo, including prescription glasses.
Where can I get Schengen visa photos in India?
VFS Global or BLS International centres (₹250-350), local studios (₹80-200) if they know the 35×45mm spec, or online tools like ours ($1/~₹83). Always specify "Schengen 35×45mm" at local studios.
Is Schengen visa photo the same as UK visa photo?
Yes! Both are 35×45mm with similar requirements. If you have a recent UK visa photo (within 6 months), you can use it for your Schengen application.
Related Pages
Need a 35×45mm Schengen visa photo?
Create Schengen Visa Photo