EU / Schengen Passport Photo Requirements — 35×45mm & Country Variations
Most European Union and Schengen zone countries use a standardized 35×45mm passport photo format. However, several countries have specific variations — background color, head size, or face coverage — that can cause rejections if missed. We know every country’s exact specs.
EU/Schengen passport photos follow a common 35×45mm standard, but individual member states have their own variations. Using a generic Schengen photo when your specific country requires different proportions or background can result in rejection. Tell us which country when ordering and we’ll apply the exact specifications.
Standard EU/Schengen Passport Photo Requirements
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Size | 35×45mm |
| Face height | 32–36mm from chin to crown (70–80% of photo height) |
| Background | Plain light background (white or light grey) |
| Color | Color only — no black & white |
| Expression | Neutral, eyes open, mouth closed |
| Head covering | Not permitted except for religious reasons |
| Red-eye | Not permitted |
| Face visibility | Full face visible chin to crown, both sides visible |
| Quality | Sharp, no shadows on face or background, good contrast |
Country-Specific Variations
While the size is the same, these countries have notable differences from the generic Schengen standard:
| Country | Key Difference | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 🇩🇪 Germany | Grey background preferred | Neutral grey is the Bundesdruckerei standard; white also accepted |
| 🇳🇱 Netherlands | Smaller head size | Head height 26–30mm, not 32–36mm — using standard Schengen specs will cause rejection |
| 🇫🇷 France | No white background | Light grey or blue-grey preferred; plain white explicitly discouraged |
| 🇨🇭 Switzerland | Strict background | Uniform light grey required; blue-grey or white not acceptable |
| 🇪🇸 Spain | Standard Schengen | White background, face 32–36mm — follows standard closely |
| 🇮🇹 Italy | Standard Schengen | White background, face 32–36mm — follows standard closely |
Country Pages with Full Details
How to Order — 3 Simple Steps
Take a photo at home
Plain background, good natural light, camera at eye level, shoulders visible. Neutral expression.
Upload and specify your country
Upload here and tell us which country your passport is for. We apply the exact country-specific specs.
Receive your photos
Same-day pickup at Walgreens, CVS, or Walmart — or worldwide mail/email delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Also see: Schengen Visa Photos →
