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 checks head position and sizing against the selected document rules before you download.

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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