European Union passport & visa photos in Tucson, AZ
One legal standard, but the consulate you apply through has the final say.
Schengen visa photos are governed by a single legal standard — the EU Visa Code points to ICAO Document 9303, which sets 35×45mm with the face filling 70 to 80% of the frame, on a plain light background, taken within the last six months. That is the baseline, and it covers the 29 Schengen countries.
In practice, the consulate processing your application has the final word, and they do not all publish the same thing. Germany asks for a neutral grey background and one photo. Italy asks for white and one photo. Spain, through its Los Angeles consulate serving Arizona, asks for two 2×2 inch photos — US size, not European. Tell us the country you are applying to and we will shoot to that consulate’s requirement rather than a generic European one.
Schengen & European Union visa photo requirements
The common standard, plus the consulate-level differences that decide whether your application is accepted.
| Baseline size | 35×45mm (approx. 1.4×1.8 in) |
|---|---|
| Face height | 70–80% of the photo, roughly 32–36mm |
| Background | Plain light-colored — grey, off-white, or light neutral |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed, eyes open and clearly visible |
| Glasses | No tinted lenses; avoid heavy frames; no reflection over the eyes |
| Head coverings | Religious reasons only, facial features clearly shown |
| Photo age | Taken within the last 6 months |
| Legal basis | EU Visa Code Art. 13(4), referencing ICAO Doc 9303 |
| Coverage | 29 Schengen countries — 25 EU member states plus Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Liechtenstein |
What gets these photos rejected
- The standard is uniform in law but not in practice. Consulates publish different sizes, counts, and background colors.
- Spain, from Arizona, wants two 2×2 inch photos — US size, not the European 35×45mm.
- Germany specifies a neutral grey background; Italy specifies white. The same photo will not satisfy both.
- A national passport or ID card is not covered by the Schengen standard — those rules are set country by country and differ widely.
- Ireland is outside Schengen and sets its own requirements.
Requirements last verified August 14, 2026 against the EU Visa Code and ICAO Doc 9303. Official specifications change without notice — we re-check before every session. Official requirements →
Why Tucson & Phoenix trust us for EU photos
Years serving Tucson with international photo expertise
Guaranteed acceptance, or we retake it free
Private, appointment-only sessions
Trusted by clients across Tucson & Phoenix
Frequently asked questions
Yes — if your photo doesn't meet the official requirements and is rejected for that reason, we'll retake it at no additional charge.
For a standard EU passport or Schengen visa application, plan on roughly 4 weeks (processing times fluctuate by country and can change — check with the relevant consulate for the latest estimate).
Same-day pickup is available for an added rush fee. Standard next-day pickup is included at no extra cost. Photos can also be mailed to you if you prefer.
Yes.
Yes.
Appointment only.
Digital copies are available on request.
Cash, Zelle, or credit/debit (card payments include a small processing fee plus applicable tax).
Trusted for EU photos
"Bob was great! Super friendly and very quick service! Made sure to double check all of the specs for my Irish Passport photos! Highly recommend for any international passport photos!"
"Quick service with flexible scheduling and pickup options. Also patient with children."
"Wonderful experience! Bob is very professional and the quality of his work is exceptional."
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