Photos for the Spain visa at BLS Mexico: the official measurements
Measurements and requirements of the biometric photograph for the Consulate of Spain in Mexico: 35x45 mm, white background and how to avoid charging for the internal BLS booth.
You arrive at BLS Polanco with your studio photographs taken in a pharmacy or professional Mexican studio.The employee looks at them with a magnifying glass and tells you: 'These photos do not comply with the consulate's regulatory millimeters; You have to take them again in our internal cabin' (with a cost of $200 to $300 pesos).This is one of the most repeated complaints in reviews.Learn the exact millimeter specifications to neutralize this charge.
The ICAO Standard: The Actual Technical Specifications
The Consulate General of Spain in Mexico does not have its own arbitrary photographic standard; applies the international standards of the ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization - Document 9303) and the EU Community Visa Code.
The photograph must measure exactly 35 millimeters wide by 45 millimeters high (European passport size, not child size or Mexican ID, which usually measure 25x30 mm).The applicant's face, measured from the bottom of the chin to the crown of the head, must occupy 70% to 80% of the vertical frame of the image (approximately 32 to 36 mm).
Background, Lighting and Facial Expression
- Pure White BackgroundThe background must be uniform and smooth white.Light gray, bluish or textured backgrounds are cause for immediate rejection.
- No Shadows or ReflectionsThe lighting must be frontal and balanced, without shadows in the background or under the nose or chin.
- Neutral Facial ExpressionMouth closed, eyes open looking directly into the lens and a serious expression without pronounced smiles.
- Accessories: The use of prescription glasses with reflections or thick frames that cover the eyes is prohibited.The hair should be removed from the forehead so that the eyebrows and both ears are perfectly visible.
How to Demand Your Photos at the Photography Studio in Mexico
When going to a studio in Mexico (such as Foto Regis, Farmacias Guadalajara with photography service or professional studios in your area), tell the photographer specifically:
'I need European passport size photographs for Schengen / Spain visa: exact measurements of 3.5 by 4.5 centimeters, plain white background, face occupying 75% of the photo, on high resolution matte paper.'
Take a millimeter ruler and check the measurement before paying at the studio.
Keep readingThe medical certificate for the Spain visa in Bogotá: the official wordingBiometric Photography Specifications at BLS Mexico
| Technical Parameter | MAEC Official Standard | Prohibited Practice | Consequence in Window |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physical Dimensions | 35 x 45 millimeters (passport size) | Mexican child size (2.5x3 cm) | Inadmissibility of photography |
| Photography Background | Neat, uniform and matte white | Gray, light blue or shadow background | Obligation to pay for photo in BLS booth |
| Face Framing | 70% to 80% of total area (32 to 36 mm) | Remote face or excessive close-up | ICAO biometric scan failure |
| Facial expression | Neutral, mouth closed, without smiling | Open smiles showing teeth | Does not comply with Schengen standard |
| Photo Booth at BLS | Available at headquarters for ~$150-$200 MXN | High prices at the counter | Bring printed studio photos |
Key Practical Tips
What the team recommends before you file anything:
- Bring at least four identical photographs professionally cropped without white borders.
- If at the counter they try to reject them citing trifles, show with a ruler that your photo complies to the millimeter with the official printed ICAO template.
Required Documentation Checklist
- Photograph size 35 mm wide x 45 mm high.
- Face that occupies between 70% and 80% of the total height of the image.
- Smooth and pristine white background without shadows.
- Recent printing on high quality matte or moderate gloss photo paper.
- No glasses, caps, headbands or hair that covers the eyebrows or facial contour.
Sources: Organización de Aviación Civil Internacional (OACI / ICAO) - Documento 9303 sobre especificaciones fotográficas; Consulado General de España en México - Normativa de Fotografía de Visado; Código Comunitario sobre Visados de la Unión Europea.
