EU & Schengen Passport Photo Requirements
EU and Schengen countries follow the ICAO biometric standard: 35×45 mm photos with a plain light grey or white background. SnapID verifies your photo against the requirements for Germany, France, Spain, Italy, and all other EU states. Whether you need a standard eu / schengen passport photo or want to take a passport photo eu / schengen online from your phone, SnapID handles it all — checking eu / schengen passport photo size, background, and every other requirement automatically.
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EU / Schengen photo specifications
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Don't let your photo get rejected
These are the most common rejection reasons — SnapID catches all of them automatically.
Wrong background color
Using white when cream is required, or off-white when pure white is needed. Our AI detects and flags background issues instantly.
Shadows on face
Overhead or side lighting creates shadows that cause rejection. SnapID checks for even lighting on both sides of your face.
Incorrect head position
Head tilted, turned to the side, or not centered in the frame. Our AI measures exact positioning against official rules.
Eyes not visible
Closed eyes, hair covering eyes, or glare from glasses. Especially common with babies — our AI is trained to catch this.
Wrong dimensions
Each country has exact size requirements. SnapID auto-crops to the precise dimensions needed for your destination country.
Photo too old
Most countries require photos taken within 6 months. Reusing old photos is a common reason for application delays.
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Tips for a perfect photo
Light grey or white background
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Most EU countries require light grey or white. Germany requires pure white specifically.
Strict neutral expression
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EU standards are stricter than US — absolutely no smiling, mouth fully closed.
No glasses allowed
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ICAO standards prohibit glasses in biometric passport photos across all EU states.
Even lighting required
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Both sides of the face must be equally lit with no shadows on face or background.
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Upload Photo – Free CheckEU / Schengen Passport Photo Size and Requirements
The official EU / Schengen passport photo size is 35×45 mm. The head must measure 32–36 mm from chin to crown. The background must be Plain light grey or white with no patterns, textures, or shadows visible. Lighting should be even and natural — avoid harsh overhead lights, direct sunlight, or camera flash that creates shadows on the face or behind the head. Your expression must be neutral, mouth closed with both eyes open and clearly visible. Glasses are not allowed in EU / Schengen passport photos. SnapID automatically validates all eu / schengen passport photo requirements including head size ratio, background color, and resolution. You can take a eu / schengen passport photo online from any modern smartphone — upload your image and SnapID checks compliance in under 3 minutes.
Frequently asked questions
What size is an EU passport photo?
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35×45 mm. The head height (chin to top of head) must be between 32 and 36 mm.
Are EU passport photo rules the same for all countries?
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The ICAO base standard is shared, but countries have variations. Germany requires pure white background, France has specific margin rules.
Can I smile in an EU passport photo?
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No. EU biometric standards require a strictly neutral expression with mouth closed.
How much does an EU passport photo cost at SnapID?
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The AI check is free. A digital photo is €4.99, and the Most Popular Bundle (human review, warranty and a print-ready sheet) is €7.99.
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