Belgium Schengen visa photo requirements
Belgium uses the shared Schengen photo standard — 35 × 45 mm, ICAO biometric framing, plain light background. This page covers the photo standard plus how Belgium consulates handle Schengen visa applications: where to apply, processing times, fees and consulate-level handling.
Quick answer
35 × 45 mm photo · TLScontact in most countries; VFS Global in some markets · €90
Prepare a 35 × 45 mm biometric photo on a plain light background. Apply through Belgian Federal Public Service Foreign Affairs (FPS) + TLScontact / VFS Global. Standard fee €90, €45 for children 6–12. Processing time 15 calendar days standard. Last reviewed .
Application route
| Issuing authority | Belgian Federal Public Service Foreign Affairs (FPS) + TLScontact / VFS Global |
|---|---|
| Visa application centre | TLScontact in most countries; VFS Global in some markets |
| Processing time | 15 calendar days standard; multi-entry visas often take longer |
| Standard fee | €90 |
| Reduced fee | €45 for children 6–12 |
| Application languages | French, Dutch, English |
| Official portal | Belgium short-stay visa portal ↗ |
Photo specification
Schengen 35 × 45 mm. The FPS Foreign Affairs visa portal references the standard ICAO biometric photo without additional national handling.
| Size | 35 × 45 mm |
|---|---|
| Head height | 70–80% of frame height (32–36 mm chin-to-crown) |
| Background | plain light grey or off-white, even illumination |
| Pose | Front-facing, head level, both ears typically visible |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed, eyes open and clearly visible |
| Glasses | Strongly discouraged; remove for the shot. See full rules → |
| Head covering | Religious coverings allowed when facial features remain fully visible |
| Age of photo | Taken within the last 6 months |
Belgium consulate handling
Belgian consulates verify the photo against the printed application form before accepting it. A photo that prints differently from the digital preview is the most common rejection.
Belgium national document photos
Frequently asked questions about Belgium Schengen visa photos
What size is the Belgium Schengen visa photo?
35 × 45 mm. Belgium uses the shared Schengen biometric photo standard — the same as every other Schengen state. The head must occupy 70–80% of the frame height with a plain light background.
Where do I apply for a Belgium Schengen visa?
Apply through the Belgian Federal Public Service Foreign Affairs (FPS) + TLScontact / VFS Global. Belgian consulates verify the photo against the printed application form before accepting it. A photo that prints differently from the digital preview is the most common rejection.
How long does Belgium take to process a Schengen visa?
15 calendar days standard; multi-entry visas often take longer. First-time applicants and applications submitted during peak travel seasons tend to fall toward the upper end of this window.
What does the Belgium Schengen visa cost?
Standard fee €90, €45 for children 6–12. Some markets add a VAC service fee on top of the consular fee paid to TLScontact in most countries; VFS Global in some markets.
Can I wear glasses in a Belgium Schengen visa photo?
Belgium follows the shared Schengen baseline: glasses are strongly discouraged because of glare and frame-related rejection risk. The safest choice at every consulate is to remove glasses before the shot.
Compare other Schengen countries
Prepare your Belgium Schengen visa photo
Upload a portrait — Anfas.Pro crops it to the 35 × 45 mm Schengen biometric frame and checks the background automatically.