Switzerland
Photo requirements for passports, visas, and ID cards. Includes dimensions, background rules, and biometric requirements for 3 document types.
Helpful pages for document photos in Switzerland
Use these pages to move from country-level requirements to a specific document format, troubleshooting help, and print guidance.
Main document requirements
Open the main document requirements page for this country to see dimensions, background rules, and face-position guidance.
Why photos get rejected
Fix the most common background, framing, and expression problems.
Passport Photo Size Guide
Compare this country's dimensions with other common formats.
How to print passport photos
Print at home or at a pharmacy without scaling errors.
About photo requirements
When applying for a Swiss travel document, meeting the strict biometric standards set by the Federal Office of Police (fedpol) is essential. These regulations ensure that all passport photos are suitable for facial recognition technology and secure identity verification. Whether you are renewing your document or applying for the first time, your photo must adhere to the official Swiss passport photo guidelines to avoid processing delays.
The mandatory size for a Swiss passport photo is exactly 35x45mm, featuring a plain, neutral light grey background. You must maintain a neutral facial expression with your mouth closed and eyes clearly visible, ensuring no hair or frames obscure your face. Glasses are generally discouraged unless medically necessary, and head coverings are only permitted for religious reasons, provided they do not cast shadows or hide your features. The photo must be in colour and printed on high-quality photo paper.
See the full 35 × 45 mm §t:3f2a8df2§ specifications for exact dimensions, face position, and background rules.
In Switzerland, the process for biometric passports is highly centralised, meaning you usually have your photo taken directly at the passport office or cantonal authority during your appointment. While you cannot typically upload your own digital file for the passport application itself, you can use idpic.app to prepare compliant images for other official documents or ID cards. Always confirm with your local municipal office if they accept pre-made digital files for non-passport identity documents.
Common issues
Rejections for Swiss passport photos often stem from incorrect lighting that creates shadows on the face or background, which compromises the biometric capture. Another frequent issue is the failure to maintain a completely neutral expression, such as a slight smile or tilted head, which disrupts the facial geometry required by fedpol. Ensure your ears are visible and the image is not overexposed, as these technical faults are the primary reasons for application rejection.
Learn more about common passport photo rejection reasons and how to fix them, or check our passport photo size guide for a global comparison.
Local tips
While many citizens opt to have their photos taken on-site at the passport centre to guarantee compliance, this can be time-consuming. Alternatively, professional photo studios across Switzerland offer services tailored to official requirements, usually costing between 20 and 40 Swiss Francs. If you choose to take a photo yourself, ensure you use a tripod and consistent, soft lighting to achieve the professional standard required for Swiss identity documents.
For a step-by-step walkthrough, see our DIY passport photo guide or learn how to print passport photos at home.
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