Schengen Visa Photo Requirements – Complete Guide for 2025

Applying for a Schengen visa requires meeting specific photo standards accepted across all 27 Schengen countries. Many visa applications are delayed or rejected because of incorrect photo sizes or backgrounds. In this article, you’ll learn all the Schengen visa photo requirements and how to easily prepare your photo using Toolerd Background Remover and Image Compressor Tool.

1. Photo Size and Dimensions

Your Schengen visa photo must measure 35 mm wide x 45 mm high. The head should cover 70–80% of the photo (approximately 32–36 mm from chin to crown). The photo must be taken within the last six months and show your full face clearly.

2. Background Color – Must Be Plain Light Grey or White

The background must be plain, light grey, or white with no patterns, shadows, or objects. If your image doesn’t meet this requirement, simply use Toolerd’s Background Remover to instantly fix it.

Follow these simple steps:

1. Go to Toolerd Background Remover.
2. Upload your image.
3. Select a White or Light Grey background.
4. Download your visa-ready photo instantly.

3. Photo Quality and Format

The photo must be clear, in full color, with natural skin tones. Avoid filters, editing, or heavy shadows. The accepted file format is JPEG (.jpg) or PNG (.png). Digital photo resolution should be at least 600 x 800 pixels.

If the file size exceeds the limit, compress it without losing clarity using Toolerd’s Image Compressor Tool.

4. Expression and Lighting

• Maintain a neutral facial expression with your mouth closed.
• Eyes should be open and clearly visible.
• No headwear or glasses (unless for religious reasons).
• Ensure even lighting with no red-eye, glare, or shadows.

FAQs – Schengen Visa Photo Requirements

Q1. What is the correct Schengen visa photo size?

The required photo size for Schengen visas is 35 mm x 45 mm.

Q2. What color should the background be?

The background must be white or light grey. You can change it easily using Toolerd Background Remover.

Q3. Can I take my Schengen visa photo at home?

Yes, as long as it meets all official photo requirements. Toolerd tools help ensure accuracy and compliance.

Q4. How can I reduce the size of my photo?

Use Toolerd’s Image Compressor to reduce image size while maintaining high quality.

Q5. Can I smile in my Schengen visa photo?

No, you should maintain a neutral expression without smiling.

Q6. How recent should the photo be?

Your Schengen visa photo must be taken within the last six months.

Final Thoughts

Following the Schengen visa photo requirements ensures your application won’t be delayed or rejected. Using Toolerd’s tools makes the process simple and fast — no professional studio needed.

• 🎨 Change background instantly: Background Remover Tool
• 📦 Compress large images easily: Image Compressor Tool

With Toolerd, your Schengen visa photo will be fully compliant and ready for submission in minutes — accurate, professional, and 100% free!

Additional Tips for Schengen Applicants

The same photo standards apply to Schengen countries like France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, and others. Each embassy follows uniform EU guidelines, so using a properly formatted photo will save you time and effort. Visit Toolerd’s Blog Section to explore photo requirements for US, UK, and Canada visas.

Make your Schengen visa photo now — meet all EU requirements quickly with Toolerd’s free online tools!