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 standard. 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 standard; up to 45 days for additional review |
| 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
Spain has outsourced short-stay visa intake to BLS International in close to 50 countries. Filing directly at the consulate is reserved for family members of EU, EEA and Swiss citizens.
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. Spain has outsourced short-stay visa intake to BLS International in close to 50 countries. Filing directly at the consulate is reserved for family members of EU, EEA and Swiss citizens.
How long does Spain take to process a Schengen visa?
For Spain, 15 calendar days standard; up to 45 days for additional review. 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?
Spain's standard fee is €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.