Everything you need to know about Spain gun license (Licencia de Armas) photo requirements. The Licencia de Armas is required for firearm ownership in Spain, and the photo must measure exactly 26x32 mm with a plain white background.
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Country | Spain (España) |
| Document Type | Gun License (Licencia de Armas) |
| Photo Size | 26 × 32 mm |
| Head Size | 70–80% of the photo |
| Background Color | Plain white |
| Printable | Yes — on matte or glossy photo-quality paper |
| Digital for Online Submission | Yes |
| Color | Color only (black and white not accepted) |
| Glasses | Not allowed |
| Expression | Neutral with mouth closed |
| Number of Photos | 2 identical photos |
| Recency | Recent (within 6 months) |
In Spain, gun licenses (Licencia de Armas) are managed by the Guardia Civil through its Intervención de Armas y Explosivos division. The photo requirements follow the same 26x32 mm standard used for other Spanish identification documents. Below is a comprehensive guide to ensure your photo is accepted.
Spain issues several types of Licencia de Armas, each for a specific purpose:
All types require the same 26x32 mm photo format. The license is valid for varying periods depending on the type, ranging from 1 to 5 years, and must be renewed before expiration.
Glasses are NOT allowed in Spain gun license photos. You must remove all eyewear, including prescription glasses, sunglasses, and tinted lenses before taking the photo.
To apply for a Licencia de Armas in Spain, you must:
Source: Guardia Civil
You don't need a professional studio. Follow these simple steps to take a compliant Spain gun license photo at home using your smartphone.
Any modern smartphone camera (iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, etc.) is more than capable of taking a license-quality photo. Make sure the lens is clean and the camera is set to the highest resolution.
Place your phone on a tripod or ask someone to take the photo for you. Selfies tend to have the wrong angle and distortion.
Stand facing a window with natural daylight for the best even lighting. Avoid direct sunlight, which creates harsh shadows. If using indoor lighting, use multiple light sources from different angles to eliminate shadows.
Wear your normal everyday clothing. Avoid uniforms and white tops that blend with the background. If you wear religious head coverings daily, you may keep them on as long as your full face is visible.
Make sure your hair does not cover your eyes or cast shadows on your face.
Stand about 1.5 meters (5 feet) in front of the camera with your head facing directly forward. Keep your shoulders relaxed and your head level — not tilted. Ensure your entire face from chin to forehead is visible.
Keep your face relaxed with a neutral expression. Both eyes must be open and your mouth closed. Do not smile or show teeth. Remove your glasses before taking the photo.
Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable gun license photos
A Spain gun license (Licencia de Armas) photo must be exactly 26×32 mm. The face must occupy 70–80% of the photo.
You need 2 identical recent photos for a Spain gun license (Licencia de Armas) application. Both photos must meet the same 26×32 mm requirements.
No. Glasses are not allowed in Spain gun license photos. You must remove all eyewear, including prescription glasses and sunglasses, before taking the photo.
The background must be plain white. No patterns, objects, shadows, or other people should be visible. If you don't have a white wall, don't worry — our tool will automatically replace your background with white.
Anyone who wants to own or use firearms in Spain must obtain a Licencia de Armas issued by the Guardia Civil (Intervención de Armas y Explosivos). This includes hunters, sport shooters, security personnel, and individuals seeking firearms for self-defense.
You apply at the Guardia Civil — Intervención de Armas y Explosivos. You must submit the required documentation including 2 identical 26×32 mm photos, pass a theoretical and practical exam, provide a medical certificate, and meet all legal requirements.
