Schengen Passport (35x45 mm) Photo Requirements

This guide explains the official photo requirements for the Schengen Passport (35x45 mm), a 35x45mm photo used for Europe passport applications. Meeting every specification below — correct dimensions, head height, background and expression — is essential to avoid rejection and get your application processed the first time.

Key Features:

• Country: Europe
• Document Type: Passport
• Primary Specifications: 35x45mm, Head 70-80%. Light gray/white.

Photo Checking Standards for Schengen Passport (35x45 mm)

When processing a Schengen Passport (35x45 mm), the following core standards are automatically validated:

1. Dimensions: The photo must match the 35x45mm format.

2. Head Size and Position: The subject's head must be centered and proportionally scaled according to this standard's requirements.

3. Background: The background must conform to the specified color (usually white or light gray) and be free of shadows.

4. Lighting and Contrast: The face must be evenly lit without harsh shadows or glare.
5. Facial Expression: A neutral expression with closed mouth is required.
6. Obstructions: Glasses (if allowed) must not have glare; no red-eye, and no hair covering the eyes.

Common Rejection Reasons

Photos for Passport in Europe are frequently rejected for the following issues:

• Incorrect Dimensions: Photo is not exactly 35x45mm.

• Poor Lighting: Harsh shadows on the face or background.

• Incorrect Background: The background color is not correct or has patterns/shadows.
• Improper Expression: Smiling, frowning, or having teeth visible.
• Glasses Glare: Reflections on eyeglass lenses.
• Head Size: The head is either too large or too small within the frame.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the required size for a Schengen Passport (35x45 mm)? A: The required size is typically 35x45mm, but check the primary specs: 35x45mm, Head 70-80%. Light gray/white..

Q: Can I smile in this photo? A: No, a neutral expression with a closed mouth is required for almost all official ID photos.

Q: What background color is needed? A: Please refer to the specific description: 35x45mm, Head 70-80%. Light gray/white.. Most require plain white or light gray.

Q: How can I create this photo? A: You can easily generate a compliant photo by selecting this standard on our main page.

Q: Can I smile in this photo? A: No, a neutral expression with a closed mouth is required for almost all official ID photos.

Q: How can I create this photo? A: You can easily generate a compliant photo by selecting this standard on our main page.

Official Specs & References

For the most up-to-date and legally binding guidelines, please refer to the official government or issuing authority website for Europe.

Official Reference: Schengen Passport (35x45 mm) – Official Photo Requirements Official Reference: Schengen Passport (35x45 mm) – Official Photo Requirements

Quoted from Official Source:

• “These include: the Pact on Migration and Asylum, the Common European Asylum System, legal migration, integration, irregular migration and return.”
• “News Communication campaigns Celebrate 40 years of Schengen End human trafficking.”

Additional Official References:

• EU Home Affairs – International Service Provider Austria En
• EU Home Affairs – International Service Provider Slovakia En
• EU Home Affairs – Visa Policy (EN)