How should a Austria visa photo look?
Austria follows the 35×45 mm Schengen format with head 31-36 mm and a light backdrop (light grey, off-white or light blue). BMI and BMEIA distribute a strict ICAO Fotokriterien PDF through every embassy and require two identical prints for paper applications. 2024 guidance tightened the rule on glasses: they are now broadly disallowed even outside medical contexts.
The bodies that set the spec
The standard is published by BMI (Interior Ministry) and BMEIA (Foreign Affairs). The photo must be within six months of the capture date. Passport and residence permit applications take two identical 35×45 mm prints.
Workflow after the shoot
Open the frame in PhotoID Studio and pick the Österreich preset; the app aligns the face, normalises the backdrop to a light tone and exports 35×45 mm at 300 DPI. Two identical copies sit on 10×15 cm paper so the customer carries a complete set to the appointment.
Capture setup and direction
Seat the customer 1.5-2 m in front of a light backdrop with shoulders parallel to the camera. Camera on a tripod, lens at eye level. Standard setup: a 50-85 mm portrait lens, f/8, a softbox at 45° with a reflector opposite. Cue: "chin slightly back, mouth closed, eyes fully open, neutral expression"; glasses are broadly disallowed.
Where BMI and embassies send people back
• Glasses worn without a medical certificate (2024 guidance tightened). • Two copies differ in tone or crop. • A frame older than six months from the capture date. • Backdrop other than light (blue, dark, patterned). • Hair covering the eyes or the forehead line. • A smile, visible teeth, an open mouth. • Head too small in the frame; the ICAO ratio is missed.
Passport plus Aufenthaltstitel pipeline
Austrian studios see year-round demand for passport and residence permit photos in pairs. The PhotoID Studio Österreich preset locks the 35×45 mm light frame and lays both copies on 10×15 cm paper with a single click.
Frequently asked questions
How many photos for an Austrian application?
Two identical 35×45 mm prints for paper applications; tone, contrast and crop must match exactly.
Can I wear glasses?
2024 guidance tightened the rule: glasses are broadly disallowed outside documented medical exceptions.
Which spec applies for an abroad application?
BMEIA embassies apply the same 35×45 mm Schengen spec; two identical prints are submitted.
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