The effect of different Schiff-base ligands on size, morphology and uniformity of Cu3V2O8 nanoparticles prepared via a simple in-situ precipitation route was investigated. Different calcination temperatures were applied and the as-prepared products were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectrum, Electron Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopy. Vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) was used to study the magnetism properties of Cu3V2O8 sample. According to the obtained results, using the appropriate amount of Schiff-base ligand is a crucial parameter for the control in particle size. The photocatalytic activity of Cu3V2O8 nanostructures was evaluated by the degradation of methylene blue in aqueous solution under UV and visible light irradiation.