BLS International photo requirements
BLS International operates visa, passport and consular centres for more than 40 governments and is best known for Spain's Schengen visa contract and for Indian passport, visa and OCI services abroad. Photo rules follow the government the centre serves.
Independent guide — not affiliated with or endorsed by BLS International. Photo rules are set by the destination government; always follow the checklist for your application.
Photo size by destination
Indian consular checklists on BLS sites ask for a 2 × 2 inch (51 × 51 mm) colour photo on plain white, face filling most of the frame, taken within 3 months; Spain and other Schengen checklists use 35 × 45 mm. Pick your destination to open its photo maker with the right size, head height and background pre-set.
Photo tips for BLS appointments
- Photo size differs by government: 2 × 2 inch on white for Indian services, 35 × 45 mm for Spain and other Schengen countries — check the BLS country checklist.
- Indian passport applicants have had to upload an ICAO-compliant photo online before the appointment since September 2025; a poor upload triggers a re-submission request.
- Bring at least two identical prints for Indian consular applications.
- Keep a neutral expression, eyes open, mouth closed; no digital touch-ups.
Why photos get rejected at the counter
- Non-white or patterned background (Indian services)
- Head not centred or tilted; face too small in the frame
- Photo older than 3 months (India) or 6 months (Schengen)
- Digital alteration or retouching
- Glasses or head coverings obscuring the face
BLS centres list a photo booth among their value-added services (extra charge; photography is also bundled into the premium lounge). Bring compliant prints to avoid the queue.
Make your photo
Choose the destination document in step 1. The crop, head size, eye line and background follow that country's rules.
Questions
What photo size does BLS International require?＋
BLS does not set photo sizes. Each destination government does, and the centre checks your photo against that specification. Find your destination in the table above; most European destinations use 35 × 45 mm and the United States and India use 2 × 2 inch.
Can I get a photo taken at a BLS centre?＋
BLS centres list a photo booth among their value-added services (extra charge; photography is also bundled into the premium lounge). Bring compliant prints to avoid the queue.
How many printed photos should I bring?＋
Check your destination's checklist — one or two recent photos is typical. Print a full 4 × 6 sheet with this tool so you have spares.
Is this site part of BLS International?＋
No. This is an independent, free photo tool. BLS International is a trademark of its owner; use their official site (www.blsinternational.com/) to book appointments and read checklists.
Sources: BLS International – Value-added services, BLS International – Spain tourist visa checklist (India). Last reviewed 2026-09-20.
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