Italy Visa, Permesso di Soggiorno & Passport Photo 2026: Requirements (Fototessera 35x45 mm)
Italy
In short. In 2026, Italian documents (visa, permesso di soggiorno) require 4 biometric photos 35x45 mm on a white background according to ICAO standards.
- The photo size must be strictly 35x45 mm.
- The face must occupy 70-80% of the photo area (32-36 mm).
- The background must be uniform and exclusively white.
- To apply for a permesso di soggiorno at the Questura, 4 identical photos are required.
- The photo must be taken no earlier than 6 months before submitting the documents.
In 2026, the requirements for photos (fototessera) to obtain an Italian visa, residence permit (permesso di soggiorno), and passport remain strict and comply with international ICAO standards. The slightest discrepancy in size, background, or facial expression is one of the most frequent reasons for delays or refusal to accept documents at the Questura or consulate.
What has changed
Italian state authorities (Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Police) continue to require biometric photos in the 35x45 mm format. For electronic documents (CIE, electronic permesso di soggiorno), photos are scanned, so print quality and contrast are of critical importance.
| Parameter | Requirement (ICAO standard for Italy) |
|---|---|
| Photo size | 35 x 45 mm |
| Face size | 70-80% of the photo area (32-36 mm from chin to crown) |
| Background | Uniform white (no shadows or patterns) |
| Validity period | Taken no earlier than 6 months before submission |
| Quantity for Permesso | 4 identical printed photos |
Who this applies to
These rules are mandatory for all applicants, including Ukrainians, who are submitting documents for:
- Permesso di soggiorno (residence permit) — during a visit to the Questura for fingerprinting.
- Italian visa (national D or Schengen C) at visa centers or consulates.
- Passaporto italiano or Carta d'Identità Elettronica (CIE) (for Italian citizens).
What to do now
- Take a new photo: Go to a photo studio or use an automatic booth (fototessera), specifying the 35x45 mm format for Italian documents.
- Check your facial expression: The face must be relaxed, mouth closed, eyes open and clearly visible. Smiling is prohibited.
- Remove unnecessary accessories: Headwear is allowed only for religious reasons (the face must be visible from the chin to the forehead). Glasses are permitted if the frame is not thick, does not cover the eyes, and there is no glare on the lenses.
- Prepare the required quantity: To apply for a permesso di soggiorno at the Questura, you will need 4 printed photos.
Common mistakes
- Incorrect background: Using a gray, blue, or colored background instead of pure white.
- Shadows on the face or background: Poor lighting that creates shadows makes the photo unsuitable for biometric scanning.
- Old photo: Submitting a photo that has already been used in a previous visa or passport issued more than 6 months ago.
- Retouching: Using filters or digital retouching that alters natural facial features.
Rules change frequently — before taking action, always check the current requirements on the official government source provided above.
Related guides
Official sources
Questions
- How many photos are needed for a permesso di soggiorno?
- To submit documents at the Questura, you usually need to provide 4 identical printed photos in the 35x45 mm format.
- Can I take a photo wearing glasses?
- Yes, but the frame must not be massive and cover the eyes, and there should be no flash glare on the lenses. Tinted sunglasses are strictly prohibited.
- What background color is required for Italian documents?
- The background must be uniform and pure white. Photos on a gray, blue, or other colored background are not accepted.