France Visa Photo Requirements 2026
A French visa photo uses the standard 35×45 mm Schengen biometric specification — plain light grey background, head 32–36 mm, no glasses, neutral expression. The same photo specification applies to short-stay Schengen visas, long-stay (D) visas, and student visas applied through France-Visas and VFS Global.
Key details
- Same 35×45 mm Schengen biometric specification across all French visa types.
- Two identical printed photos are typically required for the in-person appointment.
- For most French visas, biometrics including a digital photo are captured at the VFS appointment.
Shared rules with the country overview
These apply to every document this country issues — see the full breakdown on the country page.
Background
Plain light grey is the strict French standard. White is not officially accepted because it makes the head outline blend in.
Expression and eyes
Completely neutral expression, mouth closed, no smile. Both eyes open, looking straight at the camera.
Glasses
Since 2017, French biometric photos no longer permit glasses. You must remove them for the photo.
Recency
The photo must have been taken within the last six months and must look exactly like you today.
Frequently asked questions
What size photo for a French visa? +
How many photos do I bring to my French visa appointment? +
Does the same photo work for Schengen and long-stay French visas? +
Are glasses allowed on a French visa photo? +
Other documents in this country
Take a photo that passes — automatically.
Open the app, pick your country, and we check every rule before you save.