Poland Schengen visa photo requirements
Poland uses the shared Schengen photo standard — 35 × 45 mm, ICAO biometric framing, plain light background. This page covers the photo standard plus how Poland consulates handle Schengen visa applications: where to apply, processing times, fees and consulate-level handling.
Quick answer
35 × 45 mm photo · VFS Global in many markets; some consulates accept direct appointments · €90
Prepare a 35 × 45 mm biometric photo on a plain light background. Apply through Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs + VFS Global / TLScontact / direct consulate booking. Standard fee €90, €45 for children 6–12. Processing time 15 calendar days standard. Last reviewed .
Application route
| Issuing authority | Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs + VFS Global / TLScontact / direct consulate booking |
|---|---|
| Visa application centre | VFS Global in many markets; some consulates accept direct appointments |
| Processing time | 15 calendar days standard; up to 30 days during peak season |
| Standard fee | €90 |
| Reduced fee | €45 for children 6–12 |
| Application languages | Polish, English |
| Official portal | Poland short-stay visa portal ↗ |
Photo specification
Schengen 35 × 45 mm. The Polish 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 |
Poland consulate handling
Polish consulates have one of the highest first-time application volumes in Schengen. Plan for longer queues and bring extra printed photos.
Poland national document photos
Frequently asked questions about Poland Schengen visa photos
What size is the Poland Schengen visa photo?
35 × 45 mm. Poland 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 Poland Schengen visa?
Apply through the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs + VFS Global / TLScontact / direct consulate booking. Polish consulates have one of the highest first-time application volumes in Schengen. Plan for longer queues and bring extra printed photos.
How long does Poland take to process a Schengen visa?
15 calendar days standard; up to 30 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 Poland 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 VFS Global in many markets; some consulates accept direct appointments.
Can I wear glasses in a Poland Schengen visa photo?
Poland 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.
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Prepare your Poland Schengen visa photo
Upload a portrait — Anfas.Pro crops it to the 35 × 45 mm Schengen biometric frame and checks the background automatically.