All information on how to take the perfect photo for Poland visa according to specific requirements
Because Poland is a part of the Schengen agreement, you must follow the same photo specifications for your visa application. To meet the visa photo requirements, you must make sure your identity pictures are according to the guidelines in terms of formatting and size, quality, background, head position, facial expression, etc.
You can get your high-quality photograph that complies with all the Poland visa photo requirements at MyBiometricPhotos. You simply need to choose “Poland Visa Photo” under ‘What type of photo do you need?” and upload your photo. The photo is then processed digitally to ensure it meets the requirements of Polish authorities. Since the entire process is completed online, you can print the photos yourself to a place of your choosing.
Formatting
The Poland visa photo size must be 35×45 mm, with around 70% of your head and shoulders taking up the space in the photo. Your entire face, from the top of your head to the bottom of your chin, must be visible in the photo. Additionally, the photos must be recent, i.e., no older than six months.
Background and Lighting
The background of your Poland visa photo should be a plain gray color with no designs, patterns, bright colors, or objects. This includes pictures on the wall (if you’re taking the picture at home), no flowers, no decorations, etc. The lighting for your photo must be adjusted so that there are no shadows on your face or background. Additionally, the lighting should not be so bright that it discolors your face.
Photo Quality
Your photo must be of high resolution, and your face needs to be clear with no blurriness, contrast, or red eyes. You also have to print out the photo on good-quality paper and make sure there are no creases, lines, or scratches.
Head Position and Facial Expression
Keep your head straight and look forward to the camera’s center. Your head must also be positioned at the center of the picture, and you cannot look sideways. You must keep a neutral expression on your face without smiling or frowning and keep your eyes open and mouth closed.
Headwear and Accessories
Accessories such as sunglasses, bandanas, or hats are not allowed when you take your Poland visa photo. Additionally, prescription glasses are permissible only if you need them to see and the frames do not cover your eyes, nor do the lenses reflect, obstructing your eyes. Head scarves and similar headwear for religious purposes are allowed— provided your face is still visible from your hairline to your chin.
How Do I Take Visa Photo for Poland?
There are a few ways you can take a photo for your Poland visa application:
- Take the photo yourself at home while keeping the required specifications in mind.
- Have a family member/friend take the photo for you at home.
- Visit a professional studio that specializes in visa-taking photos.
- Take the photo at a visa center office if they offer this service.
If you want to take a photo at home but can’t adjust the required size, there are online services available that can help you set the formatting of the photo as it should be.
How to Submit a Photo for a Poland Visa Application?
Your Poland visa photos must be attached to your application either by glue, paper clips or be as is (lose). This depends on the embassy where you submit your Poland visa application, but they will let you know beforehand, so make sure to contact them.
Do I Have to take a Photo of my Children for a Poland Visa?
Yes, if you are applying with children for your Poland visa, you must also provide identity photographs of the children. For kids, some of the requirements are more relaxed. For example, for newborn babies, you can take the picture while sitting in their car seat or lying down, as long as your hands (or you) are not visible and there is a clear/neutral background.
Kids under five and five years old do not have to keep their heads straight, but you must take a photo as they look into the camera with open eyes so that their eye color is visible. If you use toys or similar distractions to get them to stay still, make sure those are not seen in the background.
How Many Photos Do I Need to Submit?
Some Polish embassies may ask you to submit one identity photo instead of two per the usual Schengen requirements, so please make sure you contact the embassy before applying for your Polish visa.