Ensuring your visa photograph adheres to strict guidelines is critical for a successful application for a Swedish visa. Any photo that deviates from the official criteria could lead to application delays or rejection.
To streamline this process, VisaFast provides the VisaFast Sweden Visa Photo Maker. This automated tool modifies your photograph, precisely adjusting its dimensions, background, and file format, to fully comply with the mandated Swedish visa regulations, thus simplifying the process and minimising related anxieties.
The official Sweden visa photo requirements are detailed below:
Using the Official Swedish Visa Photo Verification Tool
Interested in confirming that your visa photograph aligns with Swedish visa specifications? Employ the following readily-available tool for dependable verification:
1. Submit a Recent Photograph
Please choose a photograph from your device, ensuring it is saved in JPEG, JPG, or PNG format. Alternatively, you may capture a new selfie at the application center.
2. Adjustment and Resizing
Select the ‘Transform’ option to initiate automatic adjustments of your photograph. This process will ensure the image conforms to all specified requirements, including precise cropping and resizing, aligning with the official visa photo standards for Sweden.
3. Photo Submission & Utilization
Following photo preparation, please download the photograph conforming to Swedish visa specifications and include it as part of your visa application. This process is efficient and ensures accuracy, minimizing application stress.
A convenient option for applicants is to utilize services offered through Sweden visa through VisaFast for simplified application procedures.
Swedish Visa Passport Photo Requirements
The following details the required specifications for Swedish visa passport photos:
Dimensions: Photos must be 35 × 45 mm with a head height between 32 and 36 mm. The face should represent approximately 70-80% of the total image area.
Digital File Size: Digital submissions generally accept JPEG files. Specific size and resolution criteria are established by each embassy; however, standard guidelines typically apply.
Photo Type: JPEGs are required for digital uploads. Printed photos should be on matte or glossy photo paper.
Background: A plain, light-colored background – either white or light grey – is mandatory. Patterns, shadows or textures are not permitted.
Face Visibility: The face must be centrally positioned and take up approximately 70–80% of the photograph. Visible shoulders should extend above the head.
Border Restrictions: Photographs must be submitted without borders, frames or ornamental features.
Recent Photography: All photos must be no older than six months from the date of submission.
Head Position: The image must show a frontal, level view with the head neither tilted upward nor downward.
Image Quality: Digital images must have a high resolution, free from pixelation, glare, shadows and over/under exposure.
Expression: A neutral expression is required; mouth should be closed and eyes open, without exaggerated facial expressions.
Head Coverings: Headgear is prohibited unless for religious reasons; any head covering must not obscure facial features.
Eyeglasses: Glasses may be worn provided that the lenses are clear and free of reflections. Frames must not obscure the eyes, and tinted or reflective glasses are strictly prohibited.
Attire: Suitable attire – including colors - that provides contrast against the background; uniforms and camouflage are not acceptable.
Specific Requirements for Sweden Visa Photographs
Photograph Specifications

Applicants are required to submit digital photographs conforming to JPEG format. Embassy-specific requirements regarding resolution and size apply, however, a minimum resolution of 300 dots per inch (dpi) is typically necessary for images that are approximately 240 x 320 pixels or greater in size.
Image Specifications for Photo Requirements
Photographs intended for visa applications must be reproduced on matte or glossy photo paper with a resolution of at least 300 dpi. The printing process should guarantee a high level of detail and visual clarity, excluding any imperfections such as smudges, gloss irregularities, or physical damage (e.g., folds, creases).
Head and Facial Visibility
The entire face must be visible, positioned centrally within the image frame, encompassing the region from the top of the head to the chin, including the full width of the shoulders. Maintain a straight head posture, avoiding any tilting, and verify that all facial characteristics and features are readily discernible and adequately illuminated.
Background and Lighting
Use a plain white or light grey background with even lighting; no shadows or highlights. Lighting should provide a natural skin tone without red-eye or glare.
Appearance Requirements
The applicant is required to position themselves directly facing the camera with a neutral facial expression. The mouth should be closed, and the eyes must be open. A subtle, natural smile is permitted, though it should not involve exposure of the teeth.
Eyewear and Head Coverings
Sunglasses with no glare are permitted, provided that the frames do not impede vision. Head coverings are allowed for religious observance, provided they do not obscure the individual’s facial features.
Clothing Guidelines
Wear regular, everyday clothing that contrasts with the background; avoid white or pale tops that may blend in. Uniforms and camouflage patterns are not acceptable.
Sweden Visa Photo Specifications for Children and Minors
- Applicants must provide two identical photographs for each child, including infants. When a child travels under the parent’s passport, one copy of the photograph is required to be attached to the parent’s application form.
- The submitted photographs must exclusively depict the child; toys, hands, or presence of other individuals are prohibited. A neutral facial expression is recommended; it is common practice for infants to have closed eyes. The child’s primary orientation should be towards the camera with open eyes, if feasible.
- All other photograph requirements regarding size, background, lighting, head positioning, and apparel are applicable to children’s photos and must be diligently observed. Suitable clothing items should possess distinct contrast against the photograph’s background. The photographs must be current, readily discernible, and of an adequate high quality.
Do’s and Don’ts of Sweden Visa Photo
Do’s
Submit two recent photos taken no more than six months ago
Use a plain light background with uniform lighting
Centre the face and include the shoulders and crown
Maintain neutral or slight natural expression with eyes open
Provide high-resolution images, at least 300 dpi
Wear everyday clothing that contrasts with the background
Attach one child’s photo to your application form if necessary
Use JPEG files for digital submissions and correct print specifications
Don’ts
Do not tilt the head or use angled shots
Do not wear hats or eyewear with glare or tint
Do not obscure your face with hair, headgear, or eyeglasses
Do not wear white clothing that blends with the background
Do not include other people, toys, or props in children’s photos
Do not submit edited, blurry, shadowed, or overexposed images
Do not use non-JPEG formats or exceed embassy file size limits
What is the required size for a Sweden visa photo?
The dimensions for a Swedish visa photograph are specified as 35 x 45 mm. The head measurement is required to be between 32 to 36 mm, with the head occupying roughly 70 to 80 percent of the total image.
Can I use a selfie for my Sweden visa photo?
Yes, but it must meet all official requirements. The photo must be high quality, properly lit, have a plain light background, and be cropped and centred correctly. Using a tool like the VisaFast Sweden Visa Photo Maker helps ensure your selfie meets these standards.
What kind of background is required for a Sweden visa photo?
A plain white or light grey background is required. There should be no patterns, shadows, or textures.
Can I wear glasses in my Sweden visa photo?
Yes, clear eyeglasses are allowed if there is no glare and the frames don’t block your eyes. Tinted or reflective lenses and sunglasses are not permitted.
Can I print my own Sweden visa photo at home?
Yes, but ensure it’s printed at 300 dpi resolution on matte or glossy photo paper with the correct dimensions. For best results, consider professional printing services.
How recent must my Sweden visa photo be?
Your photograph must have been taken no more than 6 months prior to application to accurately represent your present physical appearance.