Passport Photo — Switzerland Requirements

Photo size, background, and compliance rules — plus a free tool to create your photo instantly.

The official photo must be 35 × 45 mm. Required background: Plain light. Face height must be 64–76% of the total photo height. Use the free tool below to create and check your photo instantly.

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35 mm45 mm64–76%

35 × 45 mm

Photo specifications

Dimensions

35 × 45 mm

Background

Plain light

Face height

6476%

of total photo height

Resolution

300 DPI

Glasses

Allowed (no tinted lenses)

Head covering

Allowed (religious)

Max photo age

12 months

Expression

Neutral expression (no smile)

Official photo requirements

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Other document types in Switzerland

Next steps and related guides

These related pages cover exact size rules, common rejection reasons, printing, and the editor.

How to take your photo

  1. Set up the required background

    Use a plain, evenly lit backdrop with no patterns, textures, or shadows. Required background: Plain light. A plain wall or sheet works well.

  2. Get even, shadow-free lighting

    Stand facing a natural light source or use two soft lights — one on each side — to eliminate shadows on your face and background.

  3. Position your face correctly

    Your face must fill 64–76% of the photo height. Look directly at the camera.

  4. Check and download with idpic.app

    Upload your photo to the free tool — it checks all requirements automatically and generates a print-ready file.

Glasses requirements

Prescription glasses may be allowed for this photo, but tinted lenses and sunglasses are not permitted. There must be no glare or reflections on the lenses, and your eyes must be clearly visible.

Baby and child photo rules

Children under 6 may have relaxed requirements for expression and eye position. Babies can be photographed lying on a white sheet or held upright. The child must be the only person in the photo — no hands, toys, or pacifiers should be visible.

Read our complete guide to baby passport photos

Frequently asked questions

What is the required photo size for passport in Switzerland?
Required size: 35 × 45 mm. Minimum resolution: 300 pixels on the shortest side.
What background is required for passport in Switzerland?
Required background: Plain light.
Can I create a photo for passport in Switzerland online for free?
Yes. idpic.app lets you create a compliant photo for free, entirely in your browser with no uploads.
Are glasses allowed for passport in Switzerland?
Prescription glasses may be allowed, but tinted lenses and sunglasses are not permitted. There must be no glare.
What is the maximum photo age for passport in Switzerland?
Your photo must have been taken within the last 12 months and must reflect your current appearance.
Can I take a photo for passport in Switzerland with my phone?
Yes. Modern smartphones have sufficient resolution. Use the rear camera. Ensure good lighting. Then upload the photo to idpic.app so the tool can crop, resize, and validate it automatically.
What resolution do I need for a photo for passport in Switzerland?
The recommended resolution is 300 DPI. Any modern smartphone camera exceeds this requirement.

Countries that use this photo type

Related resources

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