Digital Nomad Photo Guidelines for Schengen Visa [2025]

Streamlining Your Digital Nomad Journey: A Guide to Schengen Visa Application

Embarking on a digital nomad adventure in the Schengen Area just got a little easier with Nomads Embassy's Done-for-You Digital Nomad Visa service. By partnering with local immigration lawyers, they aim to increase your chances of visa approval.

The Schengen Area, a collection of 11 countries, offers digital nomad visas that allow remote workers to live and work legally for extended periods. Notable among these are Estonia and Portugal, which provide specific digital nomad visa programs enabling stays up to 12 months with the ability to work remotely for foreign employers.

However, the application process can be a complex maze. The smallest discrepancy or mistake in any submitted document, photo, or visa application can delay approval by months. To avoid such setbacks, it's advisable to work with an immigration lawyer throughout the application process.

When it comes to the Schengen visa photo, following all directions is crucial for a speedy process. Here are some key requirements:

The photo must be printed in color on high-quality paper and be clear.
If you wear glasses, there should be no glare or reflection in the lenses.
A neutral facial expression is required.
Solid-colored clothing, preferably black or navy blue, is recommended.
The background of the photo must be a solid light color, such as white or light grey.
Hats or head coverings, except for religious reasons, are not allowed.
The head and neck should take up 70% to 80% of the photo.
The photo must be no older than six months.
The photo must be a size of 35 mm X 45 mm.
The photo should not be overexposed, oversaturated, too dark, or contrasted.

It's also recommended to have your Schengen visa photo professionally taken or use a photobooth, especially if you're in Europe. Editing the photo is not allowed.

Additional documents may be requested for digital nomad visas, such as proof of remote work, proof of income, international health insurance, certified criminal background check, and proof of relationship to dependents (if applicable). The Schengen visa photo requirements are the same for visitor and long-term visa applications.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure a smoother and more efficient Schengen visa application process, making your digital nomad journey one step closer to reality.