Preparing Your Spanish Schengen Visitor Visa Photo
Get the right photo for your Spanish Schengen visitor visa application by following official size and head height rules. You can easily prepare your photo at home using the tool above.
Official Size and Dimensions
A commonly used physical photo size is 35 by 45 mm, or about 1.38 by 1.77 inches. The Visa Code refers to ICAO photo standards rather than specifying that paper size[1].
EU rules specify that the head should occupy 70 to 80 percent of the photo’s height[1]. On a 45 mm photo, that corresponds to about 31.5 to 36 mm from chin to top of head.
Background and Lighting Requirements
The photo may be attached to the application or captured or scanned during the application process, following applicable ICAO standards[1][2]. The cited sources do not specify a background color.
The cited sources do not specify a home photography setup or lighting instructions.
Facial Expression and Appearance
The cited sources do not specify rules for glasses or headwear[1][2].
The cited sources do not specify facial-expression or hair-position rules.
Children and Infant Photos
The cited sources do not specify separate infant photo dimensions[1][2]. Fingerprint exemptions for some age groups do not change the photo requirement[1].
The cited sources do not provide separate instructions for photographing infants.
Submission and Printing Methods
Spanish consular procedures may collect or scan the photo at your application appointment[2]. Local application channels may request an attached printed photo instead, so check the instructions from your competent consulate[2]. The photo is ultimately integrated into the visa sticker[2].
The 35 by 45 mm size is commonly used for physical photos, but the Visa Code refers to ICAO standards rather than specifying a paper size[1]. Check your competent consulate’s instructions for submission details[2].
Common Reasons for Refusal
EU rules specify a head height of 70 to 80 percent of the photo’s vertical dimension[1].
Follow the applicable ICAO photo standards[1]. The cited sources do not list common refusal reasons.
Preparing Your Digital File
The cited sources do not specify digital file formats, resolution, or compression requirements.
Check your competent consulate’s instructions to learn whether it collects or scans the photo or asks for an attached printed photo[2].
Taking the Photo at Home
Taking your photo at home can save you time and extra steps. Stand a short distance away from a plain, light-colored background so you do not cast harsh shadows behind you. Place yourself facing a soft light source, like a large window during the day, to light your face evenly.
Ask a friend or a family member to take the picture for you instead of taking a selfie. Selfies often distort facial features because the camera is held too close. Keep the camera lens at your exact eye level so your face is captured straight on without any tilt.
Checking Your Photo and Crop
If using a 45 mm physical photo, EU rules set the head height at 70 to 80 percent of the photo’s vertical dimension[1].
The 35 by 45 mm crop is commonly used for physical photos, but the Visa Code refers to ICAO standards rather than specifying a paper size[1]. Follow your competent consulate’s instructions for submission[2].
If the Office Takes the Photo
Spanish consular procedures may capture or scan your photo directly during your visa appointment[2]. Always read the specific instructions provided by your application center so you know what to expect.
The cited source does not specify grooming or clothing requirements.
Frequently asked questions
What is the exact size for a Spanish Schengen visa photo?
A commonly used physical crop is 35 by 45 mm (about 1.38 by 1.77 inches); the Visa Code refers to ICAO standards rather than specifying paper dimensions[1].
How do I measure head height correctly?
EU rules specify that the head should occupy 70 to 80 percent of the photo’s height[1]. For a 45 mm photo, that is about 31.5 to 36 mm.
Do babies need a special photo size?
How should I submit the photo?
Spanish consular procedures may collect or scan the photo at your appointment or request an attached printed photo depending on local channels[2].
Can I use a selfie for my visa application photo?
The cited sources do not specify whether selfies are acceptable or how far the camera should be from the applicant.