When applying for an Austria visa, one of the most overlooked—but absolutely critical—requirements is your visa photo. Whether you’re applying for a Schengen tourist visa, a student visa, or a work visa, submitting a photo that does not meet Austria’s visa photo specifications can result in your application being delayed or rejected.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the Austria visa photo requirements, including accepted photo size, background color, facial expression, and other technical criteria. You’ll also find photo tips, a checklist, and FAQs to help ensure your visa photo is 100% compliant the first time.
Why Your Austria Visa Photo Matters
Visa photos are scanned and stored in databases for border control and biometric identification. Any non-compliance with Austria’s photo guidelines can:
- Delay your visa approval
- Result in outright rejection
- Require re-submission and extra appointments
To avoid these issues, it’s crucial to understand and follow the official Austria visa photo guidelines set by the Austrian embassy and Schengen visa code.
Who Needs to Submit a Visa Photo for Austria?
Visa applicants in the following categories must submit one or two recent photos:
- Tourist Visa (Schengen Visa C)
- Business Visa
- Student Visa
- Family Visit Visa
- Transit Visa
- National Visa (D)
- Job Seeker or Work Visa
- Au Pair and Researcher Visas
Both adults and children—even infants—are required to submit compliant visa photos with their application.
Austria Visa Photo Requirements (2025 Updated)
Here is the complete breakdown of the Austria visa photo specifications according to the latest Schengen and Austrian embassy standards:
| Criteria | Requirement |
| Photo Size | 35mm x 45mm (width x height) |
| Background Color | Plain, light grey or white (no patterns or shadows) |
| Face Coverage | 70–80% of the photo; face must measure 32–36mm from chin to crown |
| Head Position | Centered and straight (not tilted) |
| Facial Expression | Neutral expression with mouth closed, eyes open and looking directly at camera |
| Headgear | Not allowed unless for religious reasons; face must be fully visible |
| Glasses | Not recommended; if worn, no reflection, glare, or tinted lenses |
| Photo Quality | High resolution (600 dpi), color photo, no editing or filters |
| Recency | Taken within the last 6 months |
| Print Format | Printed on high-quality photo paper (no inkjet prints or selfies) |
📌 Important: Photocopied or digitally scanned photos are not accepted. Only original printed photographs are allowed.
Example of a Compliant Austria Visa Photo
To help visualize the perfect Austria visa photo:
- The face should be centered and take up the majority of the image
- The eyes should be horizontally aligned and at an appropriate height (26–30mm from the bottom)
- The background must be evenly lit and shadow-free
- The lighting should not cause reflections on the face or red-eye effect
Additional Austria Visa Photo Requirements for Children
When applying for a child’s visa to Austria, special photo rules apply:
- Child must be alone in the photo (no toys, hands, or parent visible)
- Eyes should be open and visible
- Infants under 6 months can have relaxed facial rules, but face must be clearly visible
Tip: Take baby photos against a white sheet while they lie flat—avoid shadow.
How Many Photos Are Required for an Austria Visa?
Typically:
- 1 photo is required for most Austria Schengen visa applications
- 2 photos may be required for national visas (Type D) or long-term residence
Check with your local Austrian embassy, consulate, or visa center (VFS Global) to confirm.
Where Can You Get Austria Visa Photos Taken?
Choose one of the following for best results:
- Professional Photo Studio: Most reliable option—inform the photographer it’s for an Austria Schengen visa
- VFS Global Photo Booths: Available in many visa centers and embassy premises
- Online Services: Use passport photo apps like iVisa, Passport Photo Online, or makepassportphoto.com
(Ensure they follow Austria and Schengen-specific settings)
Photo Rejection: Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these frequent errors that lead to visa photo rejection:
- ❌ Wrong size (e.g., passport-size photos in your country may differ from Austria’s 35x45mm)
- ❌ Shadowy or dark backgrounds
- ❌ Smiling or exaggerated expressions
- ❌ Wearing headphones, caps, or sunglasses
- ❌ Cropped images or selfie-style photos
- ❌ Printed on standard paper or low-quality ink
If your photo is rejected, you may have to reschedule your visa appointment—a costly delay.
Checklist: Austria Visa Photo Compliance
✅ 35mm x 45mm size
✅ White/light grey background
✅ Natural expression, mouth closed
✅ Face centered, no head tilt
✅ No heavy shadows
✅ Taken within the last 6 months
✅ High-quality photo paper
✅ No glasses, hats, or digital alterations
Print this checklist and verify your photos before submission.
Austria Visa Photo vs. Passport Photo: Are They the Same?
No. Many countries use different dimensions for passport photos. For example:
| Country | Passport Photo Size | Austria Visa Photo Size |
| India | 51mm x 51mm | 35mm x 45mm |
| USA | 2 x 2 inches | 35mm x 45mm |
| UK | 35mm x 45mm | 35mm x 45mm |
If you’re using your passport photo for your Austria visa, make sure it still meets the Schengen specifications.
FAQs: Austria Visa Photo Requirements
❓ Can I wear glasses in my Austria visa photo?
It’s strongly advised not to. If worn, lenses must be clear, no reflections, and eyes must be fully visible.
❓ Can I submit a digital photo?
No. Only printed photos are accepted. However, you can digitally generate and print using an online service.
❓ Is a white background mandatory?
Yes, or at least light grey or off-white. Avoid patterns, shadows, or colors.
❓ Can I smile in my Austria visa photo?
No. A neutral expression is required. Smiling or laughing photos will be rejected.
❓ Will my visa be rejected due to photo issues?
Yes, photo issues are one of the most common reasons for rejection or re-submission.
Final Thoughts
Submitting a compliant visa photo is a small but essential step in your Austria visa application process. Don’t risk rejection due to a bad photo—take the time to ensure your image meets the official Austria visa photo requirements. Whether you apply for a short-term Schengen visa or a long-term residence permit, a high-quality, regulation-compliant photo will help you avoid delays and move smoothly through the application process.
So, before you book your flight to Vienna, Salzburg, or the Austrian Alps, make sure your photo is visa-ready!
