May 18, 2026 · Switzerland
Swiss Passport Photo Requirements 2026 – Complete Guide
Switzerland uses the standard ICAO 35×45mm format with a white background — and unlike Germany, there is no mandatory studio requirement. Here's everything you need to know.
Online photos are legal in Switzerland
Switzerland has no PointID rule and no government-mandated photography requirement. Photos created with AI tools are fully accepted for Swiss passports, ID cards, and driving licences.
Official Swiss Passport Photo Requirements
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Size | 35 × 45 mm |
| Background | Plain white |
| Head height | 31–36 mm (chin to crown) |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed |
| Glasses | Not allowed |
| Recency | Taken within 6 months |
| Eyes | Open, looking directly at camera |
| Standard | ICAO 9303 |
Source: Swiss Federal Council, fedpol (Federal Office of Police), cantonal guidelines.
Switzerland vs. Other Countries
| Country | Size | Background | Online Photo? |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇨🇭 Switzerland | 35 × 45 mm | White | ✅ Yes |
| 🇩🇪 Germany (passport/ID) | 35 × 45 mm | White/light grey | ❌ No (PointID) |
| 🇩🇪 Germany (driving licence) | 35 × 45 mm | White/light grey | ✅ Yes |
| 🇦🇹 Austria | 35 × 45 mm | White | ✅ Yes |
| 🇬🇧 United Kingdom | 35 × 45 mm | Light grey | ✅ Yes |
| 🇺🇸 United States | 51 × 51 mm (2×2 in) | White | ✅ Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an online photo for a Swiss passport?
Yes. Switzerland has no PointID rule and no government-mandated studio requirement. Online passport photos created with AI tools like ID Wizard are fully legal for Swiss passports, identity cards, and driving licences.
How old can my passport photo be?
For Swiss passports and ID cards, there is no strict maximum age — the photo must show your current appearance. In practice, authorities recommend a photo not older than 12 months. For visa applications, the 6-month rule strictly applies.
Do I need to print the photo or can I submit it digitally?
You need to bring a physical printed photo to the Swiss community administration (Gemeindeverwaltung) when applying. Print on photo paper at 300 DPI at a chemist (Migros, Coop photo station) or at home.
What if the municipality rejects my photo?
If your photo from ID Wizard is rejected for a supported use case, you receive a full refund. Contact hallo@id-wizard.com with the rejection reason.
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