Size & format
| Spec | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 35 × 45 mm (width × height) |
| Face height | 32–36 mm from chin to top of head |
| Background | Plain white or off-white, even lighting |
| Print resolution | Minimum 600 dpi, photo-quality paper |
| Age of photo | Taken within the last 6 months |
| Quantity | 2 copies, one stapled to the form, one for biometrics |
Composition
- Centred face looking directly at the camera — no head tilt.
- Neutral expression, mouth closed. No smiling.
- Eyes open and visible, not red-eyed, not obscured.
- No glasses — even prescription. (Some consulates make exceptions for medical reasons with documentation.)
- No head covering unless worn daily for religious reasons; even then face must be fully visible from forehead to chin.
- Even lighting, no shadows on face or background.
Do / Don't
Do
- Use a professional booth or studio
- Wear contrasting clothing against white background
- Look directly at the camera
- Take it within the last 6 months
Don't
- Use selfies, mirror photos, or filters
- Wear glasses or hats (unless religious)
- Smile or pull faces
- Crop a holiday photo or screenshot
Where to get a Schengen-compliant photo
Most photo booths in supermarkets and stations have a "Schengen / EU passport" preset that nails the 35×45mm with white background. High-street photographers (Snappy Snaps, Max Spielmann etc.) charge £8–£15 for a verified set of two prints plus a digital file.
DIY tip
Smartphone apps that "validate" passport photos work surprisingly well — especially with a plain white wall and natural daylight from a window.
Photo ready?
Once you've got a compliant photo, the rest of the application takes about 20 minutes via our wizard.
Start your application →