Switzerland Passport Photo Requirements

Photo size and head dimensions

The photo must be 35 mm wide × 45 mm tall. Head positioning within the frame is precise:

• Head height: 34.5 mm from chin to top of hair (not crown of head)
• Top margin: 3 mm between the top of the hair and the top edge of the photo
• Face width: 16–20 mm from ear to ear
• Face coverage: the face should occupy 70–80% of the photo area
• Eye position: eyes must be level and horizontally centred in the frame
• Shoulders: top of both shoulders must be visible

PixID automatically calculates and adjusts head position when processing your photo — no manual measuring required.

Background

The background must be plain grey, uniform, and shadow-free. Specific requirements:

• Plain grey — not white, not off-white, not beige
• No patterns, gradients, textures, or objects in the background
• No shadows on the background or on the face
• The background must be uniformly lit — no dark spots or bright patches

Avoid wearing light grey clothing, as it can blend into the background. Dark or coloured clothing works best.

Expression and appearance

• Expression: neutral, mouth closed. A slight natural smile is technically permitted but neutral is strongly recommended — automated biometric checks flag non-neutral expressions.
• Eyes: both eyes open, looking directly at the camera, no red-eye.
• Glasses: not permitted. If required for documented medical reasons, include a signed doctor's statement. Sunglasses and tinted lenses are always prohibited.
• Head covering: not permitted unless worn daily for religious reasons, in which case a signed statement confirming the religious nature must be submitted. The full face must be visible with no shadows.
• Hair: must not cover the eyes or obscure facial features. Long fringe should be pinned back.
• Clothing: everyday attire. No uniforms, military clothing, or costumes. Jewellery is permitted if it does not obscure facial features.
• Headphones and wireless devices: not permitted.

Digital photo specifications

For online applications and digital submissions to Swiss authorities:

Children and infant photos

The same size and quality requirements apply to children of all ages. Additional guidance for young children:

• Only the child may appear in the photo — no hands, arms, or other people visible.
• Infants who cannot hold their head up may be photographed lying on a plain white or off-white sheet, or placed in a car seat covered with a plain sheet.
• For infants, eyes do not need to be fully open. For all other ages, eyes must be open.
• The face must be clearly visible without obstructions. Ensure no shadows fall on the face when shooting from above.

When you need a new photo for renewal

A new photo is required only if there has been a significant change in appearance. Significant changes include facial surgery, major facial trauma, large piercings or tattoos added or removed, significant weight change, or gender transition.

Changes that do not require a new photo: growing or shaving a beard, changing hair colour, minor ageing. Children under 16 do not need a new photo due to natural ageing alone.

Common reasons Swiss passport photos are rejected

• White background instead of grey — the single most common mistake. Swiss requirements specify grey.
• Glasses — not permitted unless medically documented.
• Shadows on the face or background — from poor lighting setup or being too close to the backdrop.
• Head height incorrect — must be exactly 34.5 mm. Off by even 1–2 mm can fail automated checks.
• Top margin wrong — less or more than 3 mm between hair and top edge.
• Non-neutral expression — smile, raised eyebrows, or open mouth.
• Hair covering eyes or face — fringe must be pinned back.
• Photo older than 6 months — or not reflecting current appearance.
• Low resolution — pixelation, blur, or printed on regular paper instead of photo paper.
• Digitally altered — retouching, beauty filters, or skin smoothing leads to rejection.

Switzerland passport vs other Swiss documents

The Swiss Schengen visa uses EU Visa Code specifications (white or light grey background) — different from the passport requirement. Always verify which document you are applying for.

Frequently asked questions

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