Italy Schengen visa photo requirements
Italy uses the shared Schengen photo standard — 35 × 45 mm, ICAO biometric framing, plain light background. This page covers the photo standard plus how Italy consulates handle Schengen visa applications: where to apply, processing times, fees and consulate-level handling.
Quick answer
35 × 45 mm photo · VFS Global in most markets; some consulates accept direct appointments · €90
Prepare a 35 × 45 mm biometric photo on a plain light background. Apply through Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation + VFS Global. Standard fee €90, €45 for children 6–12. Processing time 15 calendar days standard. Last reviewed .
Application route
| Issuing authority | Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation + VFS Global |
|---|---|
| Visa application centre | VFS Global in most markets; some consulates accept direct appointments |
| Processing time | 15 calendar days standard; up to 45 days for second-line review |
| Standard fee | €90 |
| Reduced fee | €45 for children 6–12 |
| Application languages | Italian, English |
| Official portal | Italy short-stay visa portal ↗ |
Photo specification
Schengen 35 × 45 mm. The Italian visa portal references the shared Schengen photo standard.
| 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 |
Italy consulate handling
Italian consulates request two physical printed photos in many markets even when the digital file is uploaded. Print on professional photo paper to avoid surface-reflection rejections.
Italy national document photos
Frequently asked questions about Italy Schengen visa photos
What size is the Italy Schengen visa photo?
35 × 45 mm. Italy 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 Italy Schengen visa?
Apply through the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation + VFS Global. Italian consulates request two physical printed photos in many markets even when the digital file is uploaded. Print on professional photo paper to avoid surface-reflection rejections.
How long does Italy take to process a Schengen visa?
15 calendar days standard; up to 45 days for second-line review. First-time applicants and applications submitted during peak travel seasons tend to fall toward the upper end of this window.
What does the Italy 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 most markets; some consulates accept direct appointments.
Can I wear glasses in a Italy Schengen visa photo?
Italy 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 Italy Schengen visa photo
Upload a portrait — Anfas.Pro crops it to the 35 × 45 mm Schengen biometric frame and checks the background automatically.