Switzerland Passport / Visa Photo Requirements and Size

When renewing your Switzerland passport or applying for a visa, you must meet the specific requirements for the photos.

Photo Specs

Size: 45mm x 35mm

Color: Must be on color.

Head size and position: Head should measure 29mm to 34mm and be centered.

Recency: Taken within the last 6 months.

Background: Solid white or off-white. No patterns.

Smile: None. Neutral expression only. Mouth closed.

Eyes: Fully visible, open, and facing camera.

Glasses: Only if eyes are visible.

Headgear: Religious or medical reasons only.

Attire, clothing, dress code: No uniforms or white-colored clothing.

Quantity needed in application: 2.

Detailed guidelines for Switzerland passport/visa application photos

As you’ve probably guessed, this is no selfie or picture you’d share with your photos on Twitter. Instead, strict guidelines are put forth to assure the Swiss and other governments can properly identify you. Here are a few detailed specifications you need to meet:

1. No photos done in black and white or showing any type of filter will be accepted. The color must represent your true, natural skin tone.

2. Avoid uneven lighting. This is the most common detail leading to the rejection of any photo. It won't be accepted if the photo is too dark or too light, casts shadows on your face, or shows a reflection from a flash on the background.

3. Each photo submitted must be an identical copy and not photocopied, printed on glossy, high-quality paper.

4. Background color is important. It can’t be any color other than white and has no pattern or image.

5. Sizing is critical. 35mm by 45mm means those exact measurements only. No smaller. No bigger.

6. Eyes must be open and clearly visible in the photo. Avoid red eyes by not aiming to flash directly into the eyeball. If this occurs, retake the picture, as ANY digital alterations are prohibited.

7. Glasses can be worn only if they do not block the eyes. Tinted lenses, glare, or sunglasses are not allowed.

8. Nothing should be worn on the head or in your hair unless it’s for religious or medical reasons only. Even so, your full face has to be visible.

9. Keep clothing darker in color so you are contrasted with the background.

Passport and visa photo rules and requirements for newborns and babies

Planning to take the entire family with you? Each child and infant will require their own personal passport or visa, regardless of age. The above regulations still apply to kids and infants, especially the technical ones. We understand taking photos of your kids in a certain position may require multiple shots to get it right, but have no fear; it can be done. Here are a few guidelines and tips to ensure acceptable images:

• If you hold your child, ensure your hands or arms are not in the picture.

• You can choose to either lay a child down or sit them in a car seat. Use a plain white sheet for the background, regardless of your choice.

• Toys or other foreign objects cannot be photographed.

• A child under the age of 11 requires a head measurement of 23mm to 34mm.

• Eyes must be open, mouth closed, and head centered in the photo. This could take quite a few tries to get right, but keep trying.

• Double-check lighting and ensure the child’s face is visible even with lighting.

Learn more about Switzerland’s travel requirements and apply for a Swiss visa with us!