Spain Visa Photo Requirements
Based on the Consulate of Spain in San Francisco official specifications.
| Specification | Official requirement |
|---|---|
| Size | 35 × 45 mm (Schengen standard) |
| Face height | ~70–80% of photo (chin to crown visible) |
| Quantity | 2 identical photos |
| Background | Plain bright / neutral grey |
Always confirm the latest rules on the official government site before you submit.
Official pages list rules; these notes highlight mistakes we see when people crop at home before online upload or print.
- Schengen-style visa photos are usually 35×45 mm with the face filling most of the frame.
- Neutral grey or bright plain backgrounds are safer than busy rooms or coloured walls.
- Glasses need clear eyes with no glare; tinted lenses are a common refusal reason.
- Print on quality photo paper—office paper and screenshots look soft at the counter.
Crop your photo free online
Browser-based passport photo tool — process locally on your device, no watermark on downloads.
Works in your browser. No app download required.
Can I print my own passport photo at home?
Will a home-printed photo be accepted?
What size should I print?
What size do Spain residence / Schengen-style visa photos use?
Most sheets use 35×45 mm with the face filling roughly 70–80% of the photo. Follow the consulate PDF for your visa type.
White or grey background?
Visa guidance often prefers plain bright or neutral grey. Avoid patterns and coloured walls.
Can I submit a digital file only?
Many Spanish visa routes still require printed photos. Follow your application checklist—do not assume an upload replaces prints.
Are glasses OK?
Only if eyes are clear without glare or tint. When unsure, remove glasses for the photo.
How many identical prints?
Usually two identical photos taken within six months. Print a spare when you can.
Can I crop with a phone app?
Yes if the final size and head fill match the diagram. Check at 100% zoom for soft edges before printing.
Reference: Consulate of Spain in San Francisco
- • Provide 2 identical photos; taken within the last 6 months
- • Face visible from chin to crown; centred, include shoulders
- • Face height: 35x45mm (generally 70–80% of the photo)
- • Clear, sharp, proper contrast; no damage or creases
- • Even lighting; no shadows, reflections or red‑eye
- • Plain bright background (neutral grey recommended)
- • No other people or objects; no background patterns
- • Glasses: eyes clearly visible; no tinted lenses or glare
- • Head coverings not allowed except for religious reasons; full face visible
- • Professionally printed on high‑quality photo paper