Preparing Your Photo for a French Long-Stay Visa
You need a specific photo size when you apply for a French long-stay visa. Use the tool above to crop your image correctly before you print it.
Official Size and Head Dimensions
The official size for your visa photo is 37.5 by 45 millimeters, which equals about 1.48 by 1.77 inches[1]. These exact dimensions are required by the French consular authority for your application paperwork[1]. You must make sure your photo matches these numbers precisely before you print it out. If the dimensions are even slightly off, the issuing office might reject your submission.
The head should measure 32 to 36 mm from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head[2].
Background and Lighting Requirements
Your photo background must follow the standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization[2]. This means you need a plain and light-colored backdrop behind you with no patterns or textures[2]. Official guidance and examples from France-Visas specifically list light gray or light blue as acceptable background colors[2]. Make sure you do not use dark or busy walls, as these will cause automatic rejection.
Good lighting is just as important as the background color. Try to face a bright window so natural light hits your face evenly from the front. Avoid standing too close to the wall behind you, which creates dark shadows. Ask a friend to take the picture instead of using arm's length angles, and keep the camera lens right at your eye level.
Facial Expression, Eyes, and Glasses
Your facial expression must remain completely neutral when the camera shutter opens[2]. Keep your mouth closed tightly and do not smile, frown, or open your lips in the picture[2]. Look directly into the camera lens with your eyes wide open and focused. Relax your facial muscles so you maintain a natural, neutral look throughout the snapshot.
If you wear glasses, your eyes must be visible and the lenses must not have glare[2]. Head coverings are allowed only for religious reasons. Your facial features must remain visible from the chin to the forehead[2].
Rules for Children and Minors
Minor applicants need a photo. Check the application instructions for the photo requirements[1][2].
Age rules change the application process as children grow older. If the minor applicant is over twelve years old, they generally must attend an in-person appointment for biometric data capture[2]. This means older children provide a photo and also visit the office for fingerprints and digital pictures. Always check the current age rules for your specific family members before you start the application steps.
Printing and Submission Methods
The long-stay visa form has a space for a photo[1]. Follow the instructions from your consulate or visa application centre about the photo you must provide.
If your application instructions call for a printed photo, prepare it at the required size and follow the instructions for printing and submission.
Who Takes the Photo and Next Steps
A consulate or visa application centre may capture your biometric photo during the process[3]. Follow the instructions from the office handling your application.
Preparation helps you avoid basic mistakes with head height and framing before your appointment. Remember that the final approval always rests with the issuing office, and they decide whether your printed photo meets their current standards. Take your time during each step to help your application move forward without delays.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wear glasses in my French visa photo?
Glasses are allowed only under strict conditions, and your eyes must be fully visible without any glare or heavy frames blocking them[2].
What color should the photo background be?
The background must be plain and light-colored, and the official examples specify light gray or light blue[2].
Do babies and small children need a photo?
Yes, minor applicants must include a physical photo with their visa application[2].
Do I need to print the photo out?
Will the consulate take my photo at the appointment?
A consulate or an authorized service provider may also capture your biometric photo during the official process[3].