Spain
Photo requirements for passports, visas, and ID cards. Includes dimensions, background rules, and biometric requirements for 4 document types.
Helpful pages for document photos in Spain
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 official identification in Spain, meeting the specific standards set by the Policía Nacional is essential for a successful application. Both the DNI and passport require a 26 × 32 mm format. Ensuring your photo complies with these official regulations prevents delays and ensures your documentation is processed efficiently by the authorities.
The mandatory size for a Spanish passport photo is 26 × 32 mm, featuring a plain, uniform white background with no shadows. You must maintain a neutral facial expression with your mouth closed and eyes clearly visible, looking directly at the camera. Glasses are not allowed, while head coverings are strictly prohibited unless worn for religious reasons, provided they do not hide your facial features.
See the full 26 × 32 mm §t:c75f4621§ specifications for exact dimensions, face position, and background rules.
The Spanish passport application process is primarily an in-person procedure conducted at authorised police stations, requiring physical prints. You must present your photos at the time of your scheduled appointment to be scanned by the officer. If you require a digital version for other administrative needs, using a service like idpic.app provides a convenient and free alternative to ensure your image meets the necessary technical specifications before you print.
Common issues
A frequent cause for rejection in Spain is the presence of shadows on the background or across the face, which often occurs when lighting is uneven. Amateur photos often fail due to incorrect head positioning or expressions that are not completely neutral. Additionally, wearing glasses with heavy frames that create glare or shadows over the eyes is a common oversight that leads to immediate rejection by the processing officers.
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
For the most reliable results, visit a local professional photo studio or use one of the ubiquitous photo booths found in metro stations and shopping centres, which are calibrated for Spanish document standards. Prices for a set of photos typically range between 5 and 10 euros. If you choose to take your own photo, ensure you use a tripod and natural lighting to avoid the common pitfalls of flash photography.
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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