Attention applicants from outside Europe: To be sure of a successful Schengen visa application it’s essential to follow the proper requirements for photos.
Inability to meet these requirements can cause a visa refusal. It is possible to be denied a visa. Schengen countries have adopted a common set of guidelines for passport photos, which are aligned to the guidelines established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) which is an agency of the United Nations. These standards cover things like size as well as background and color.
To aid you in this procedure, our team conducted extensive studies to provide you with complete information about what you need to know about Schengen Visa photo requirements.
This information is useful when you apply for an Schengen visa in a country that is not Schengen.
What is an Schengen Visa?
Schengen visas are a type of Schengen Visa is one-time visa that gives non-Schengen residents the possibility of traveling anywhere in the Schengen countries that are part of the Schengen Area.
The visa permits holders to freely move across these countries without the requirement of additional visas or border controls.
In certain cases it is possible that those with a Schengen visa holder could be permitted to travel to other non-Schengen countries with agreements that permit entry with valid Schengen visa.
It is a great option for travelers who are exploring a variety of European destinations throughout their journey.
Which are Schengen nations?
The Schengen zone is comprised from 26 European nations that have agreed on an agreed-upon border policy.
That means that with one Schengen visa, visitors can travel to all of them for temporary visit.
The visa allows the maximum duration of stay up to 90 days over the 180-day timeframe. The Schengen countries are Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liech tenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.
It gives travelers the chance to travel across the many European destinations through a single visa agreement.
Place Schegan visa holders Can Visit
Schengen Area: The Schengen Area consists of 26 European nations that have eliminated passport control at their common border. If you are a citizen of one of these countries and have an Schengen visa you may travel to these countries:
1. Austria
2. Belgium
3. Czech Republic
4. Denmark
5. Estonia
6. Finland
7. France
8. Germany
9. Greece
10. Hungary
11. Iceland
12. Italy
13. Latvia
14. Liechtenstein
15. Lithuania
16. Luxembourg
17. Malta
18. Netherlands
19. Norway
20. Poland
21. Portugal
22. Slovakia
23. Slovenia
24. Spain
25. Sweden
26. Switzerland
Be aware that the visa policy and Schengen membership may alter in time It’s advised to confirm with the relevant embassies or official sources to get the latest information.
Schengen Visa Specifications
Schengen requirements for visa photos are crucial to ensure that your visa application process is completed quickly and without delays.
The fulfillment of these requirements is vital as your photo is an important element of your visa application and must be in line with the specific guidelines established by Schengen Area member states. Here are the requirements that you must know.
1. Photo Size
The size of the photo needed for the Schengen visa is usually 35mm and 45mm. It must have a standard aspect ratio and the size of the head (from at the top to lower chin) should range from 30 and 36 millimeters.
2. Background Color
The background of the photograph must be light-colored, preferring white or off-white to provide the most obvious contrast with the face of the person applying for.
3. Photo Quality
The image should be high-quality clear, crisp, and sharply focussed. It shouldn’t be overexposed or pixelated or display any flaws that are obvious.
4. Facial Expression
The applicant should have an impartial facial expression with both eyes closed and looking straight at the camera. The mouth must be shut and the candidate must not smile.
5. Head Position
The head should be aligned within the frame of the photograph and should be positioned in a direct line with the camera. The face must be completely visible, without any obstructions, such as hair or other accessories that cover the eyes or the face.
6. Eye Glasses
When the candidate wears glasses the photograph must show the eyes clearly without reflections or glare from the lenses. The frames shouldn’t cover the eyes and tinted glasses aren’t allowed, unless medical reasons.
7. Head Coverings
The use of head coverings, such as scarves or hats are typically not permitted on Schengen Visa photos unless for medical or religious reasons. In these cases the face should be apparent from the top of the head up to the chin. Furthermore, the head cover should not create shadows over the face.
8. Dress Code
The applicants should dress in ordinary, everyday clothing for the photograph. Clothing that could be mistaken for uniforms generally not permitted, with the exception of for religious clothing.
9. Photo Age and Condition
The photo must be recent typically taken in less than six months and should show the person’s present appearance. The photo should not alter or be digitally or enhanced.
10. Photo Format
The photo should be printed in color on photo paper of high-quality. Photos that are black and white or photographs printed that are printed on plain paper aren’t acceptable.
11. Digital Photo Submission
Certain countries will accept digital images for Visa applications online. In these cases the image must come in JPEG format, with the minimum resolution of 600×600 pixels.
12. Number of Photos
The majority of applicants are required to provide two copies of their photo along in their visa application.
13. Photo Background Requirements
The background should be consistent simple, uncluttered, and free of any patterns or other objects. The background should not have reflections or shadows on the background.
14. Photo Printing Requirements
The photo must be of high-resolution and professional appearance. It shouldn’t be printed at home or photocopied.
15. Selfies and Self-taken Photos
Selfies or photos taken by self are not acceptable for Schengen Visa applications. The photograph has to be captured by an experienced photographer or studio for photography.
16. Image Dimensions and Aspect Ratio
The face of the applicant should fill 70-80 percent of the total area. The aspect ratio is 3:4, meaning that its width in the image equals three quarters its length.
17. Photo Background and Edges
The background must be smooth as well as the lines of the face of the applicant must be clear, with no distortion or blurring.
18. Photo Resolution
The photo must have high resolution, generally at minimum 300 DPI (dots for every inch) to make sure that the printing is clear and accurate.
19. Photo Composition
The photograph should show the entire head, from all the way from the crown and the lower part of the jawline. The face of the candidate must be placed in the middle of the image.
20. Photo Lighting
The image should have uniform lighting across the face without dark shadows or bright spots.
Be aware that certain countries might have slightly different or additional requirements, which is why it’s essential to check their official site for the consulate or embassy of the Schengen country you’re hoping to visit to get current and precise requirements for photos.
By complying with these rules, you can increase your chances of getting your visa approved and will avoid problems or delays during the process of obtaining you Schengen visa.