Spain Schengen visa photo requirements
Spain uses the shared Schengen photo standard — 35 × 45 mm, ICAO biometric framing, plain light background. This page covers the photo standard plus how Spain consulates handle Schengen visa applications: where to apply, processing times, fees and consulate-level handling.
Quick answer
35 × 45 mm photo · BLS International in many markets; TLScontact and VFS Global in selected countries · €90
Prepare a 35 × 45 mm biometric photo on a plain light background. Apply through Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores + BLS International / TLScontact / VFS Global. Standard fee €90, €45 for children 6–12. Processing time 15 calendar days. Last reviewed .
Application route
| Issuing authority | Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores + BLS International / TLScontact / VFS Global |
|---|---|
| Visa application centre | BLS International in many markets; TLScontact and VFS Global in selected countries |
| Processing time | 15 calendar days; up to 45 days during peak season |
| Standard fee | €90 |
| Reduced fee | €45 for children 6–12 |
| Application languages | Spanish, English |
| Official portal | Spain short-stay visa portal ↗ |
Photo specification
Schengen 35 × 45 mm. The Spanish MFA applies the shared Schengen photo standard for short-stay visa applications.
| 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 |
Spain consulate handling
Spanish consulates use BLS International more than the Schengen average. BLS desks tend to apply stricter glare checks on glasses than VFS or TLScontact.
Spain national document photos
Frequently asked questions about Spain Schengen visa photos
What size is the Spain Schengen visa photo?
35 × 45 mm. Spain 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 Spain Schengen visa?
Apply through the Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores + BLS International / TLScontact / VFS Global. Spanish consulates use BLS International more than the Schengen average. BLS desks tend to apply stricter glare checks on glasses than VFS or TLScontact.
How long does Spain take to process a Schengen visa?
15 calendar days; up to 45 days during peak season. First-time applicants and applications submitted during peak travel seasons tend to fall toward the upper end of this window.
What does the Spain 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 BLS International in many markets; TLScontact and VFS Global in selected countries.
Can I wear glasses in a Spain Schengen visa photo?
Spain 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 Spain Schengen visa photo
Upload a portrait — Anfas.Pro crops it to the 35 × 45 mm Schengen biometric frame and checks the background automatically.