Many Schengen visa applicants don’t succeed for different reasons, such as submitting invalid or wrong documents or using the wrong photos. Schengen countries have a very strict policy regarding photo quality, so it is important to know the Italy Schengen visa photo requirements before submitting your application for one.
The photo requirements are the same for all Schengen visas issued by all countries in the Schengen zone. To ensure that your application is not rejected because of the wrong photo, we have compiled a comprehensive requirement to help you. Read this till the end to know more.
For starters, let us review the basic requirements for visa photos
Two identical photos not older than six months are required
The ideal size is 35mm x 45mm
Photos must be colored
Your head should occupy between 70%-80% of the photo
The background should be white or light grey, not colored
You must look straight into the camera
You should not wear uniforms with the same color as the background
You must maintain a neutral facial expression
These are the basic requirements for photos for all Schengen visas. Below, we review them in detail for your understanding.
Photo Size
The photos you use must be a size dimension of 35x45mm in height. This has long been the standard size, and it has not changed. The photo must show your full face from your forehead to your chin. The left and right sides of your face must be visible. Furthermore, your face must occupy 70-80% of the photo. If you are rocking a hairstyle, the photo must also show that. Lastly, your face should be positioned at the center of the image when the shot is taken. Note that forms submitted with photos that do not meet this requirement will be rejected.
Contrast
Photos must have a sharp contrast and show the face clearly. Your photo must not be blurred, too bright, or have poor contrast. The brightness must be spread uniformly across the image with no red eyes, shadows, or flash reflection on the surface.
Background
The background should be white or light grey. Avoid using a patterned background or a different color.
Anything aside from white or grey will be rejected.
Photo Quality Paper
Quality is another important requirement not to overlook. No matter how good the image is, printing it on poor-quality paper will not cut it. Your passport photos must be printed on quality paper with a high resolution of at least 600 dpi. The resolution must also match your skin tone. The paper must not be creased; otherwise, it will affect the image quality and be rejected at the visa office.
Face
Applicants are advised to maintain a neutral facial expression and a straight head position when their shot is taken. Do not smile or frown; maintain a straight face and keep your mouth closed. Also, look straight at the camera.
Line of Sight
Your face and eyes must be facing the camera. Make sure your hair is not blocking your face in any way. The whole of your face must be visible.
Glasses
Avoid wearing glasses at all if you can. If you must wear glasses, don’t wear dark optical or tinted lenses that cover your eyes. Only transparent glasses must be worn.
Head Covering
Applicants must not pose with a hat or head cover for the shot, as this may create a shadow. The only exception for this is religious headwear like a hijab or a turban. You must wear any of this to ensure that it doesn’t cover your chin or forehead.
These are the photo requirements for all Schengen visas and must be followed to the letter.
Other Documents Required For A Schengen Visa
Here are the documents you will be asked to provide when applying for a Schengen visa.
Application Form: A completed and duly signed visa application form. The form contains several sections that must be filled out. There is a section for your photo where you will affix one of your photographs.
Passport: You must submit a valid ordinary passport that meets Schengen requirements. The passport must not be older than 10 years and must meet two conditions; it must be valid for at least three months from your departure date and have a minimum of two blank pages for visa stamps. Passports that do not meet these requirements will be rejected.
Proof of funds: You must prove that you have the financial means to cover your expenses during your stay in Italy. The minimum daily expenses required for visitors is €50 per day.
Proof of Accommodation: You will need to provide hotel reservation evidence or a house address where you will stay during your time in the country.
Travel Insurance: A medical travel insurance certificate with a minimum cover of €30,000. This is to cover any medical costs you may incur in the country.
Cover Letter: A signed cover letter giving reasons for your visit and your plans when you arrive. The embassy will also like to know your arrival and departure date.
These documents must be submitted along with identical photos that meet Italy Schengen visa photo requirements.