Germany Passport Photo Requirements
The current database preset for a Germany passport photo is 35 × 45 mm with a plain light gray background. The head, from chin to crown, must occupy 71–80% of the photo's height. For digital submission that is 827 × 1063 pixels at 600 DPI. The database record was reviewed on 2026-08-23; confirm the current rule with the issuing authority. The ordinary-document photo must be captured by the authority or sent through a certified digital service; this profile explains the process but does not create that secure transmission or sell a submission-ready file.
This ordinary passport process requires authority capture or certified digital transmission; IDPhotoTool does not create that transmission.
Certified digital transmission required
This ordinary document workflow accepts a photo captured at the authority or sent through a certified photo service. IDPhotoTool can explain the recorded process, but it cannot create the secure transmission or sell a submission-ready file for this profile.
What IDPhotoTool can change
Available for this profile
- —
Unavailable for this profile
- × Crop
- × Resize
- × Reposition
- × Background replacement
- × Facial retouching
Background processing is available as a tool capability. This is not a claim of official permission.
Read the recorded official guidance →Germany passport photo requirements
| Size | 35 × 45 mm (1.38 × 1.77 in) |
| Digital size | 827 × 1063 px at 600 DPI |
| Background | Light gray |
| Head height | 71–80% of photo height |
| Authority source | German Federal Portal (Bundesportal) ↗Application guide; confirm the photo specification. |
- ✓Photo must be 35 x 45 mm (biometric standard).
- ✓Face height must be 32–36 mm from chin to crown.
- ✓Plain light grey background is recommended.
- ✓Neutral expression, mouth closed, looking straight at the camera.
- ✓Since 1 May 2025, ordinary passport photos must be captured at the authority or transmitted through a certified digital photo service; self-created uploads and paper photos are not accepted for this workflow.
Database last reviewed 2026-07-13 · see the full requirements database. Always confirm with the issuing authority before submitting your application.
Glasses & head coverings in Germany
Why Germany passport photos get rejected
- ✕Since May 2025 printed photos are no longer accepted at all — digital submission only
- ✕Face height outside the strict 32–36 mm biometric band
- ✕Background not uniform light grey
- ✕Head tilted — Germany's biometric check is strict on symmetry
- ✕Reflections on glasses
More detail in our guide to the 8 most common rejection reasons.
Where to submit your application
Bürgeramt (local citizens' office) ↗
Book at your local Bürgeramt; the photo must arrive digitally via a certified photographer's QR code or the on-site PointID terminal. Our 35 × 45 output remains valid for visas, residence permits and applications abroad.
Frequently asked questions
Is my photo uploaded to a server?
Cropping, resizing and basic checks are handled in your browser whenever possible. Your photo is uploaded temporarily only when a feature requires server-side processing, and temporary files are automatically deleted.
Will my photo be accepted by the authorities?
The tool crops your photo to the selected document dimensions and places head-position guides based on the current database record. You are responsible for confirming the issuing authority's current rules and following the posing guidance (neutral expression, no glasses, even lighting).
How do I print my passport photo?
The HD download includes a 4×6 inch print sheet with several copies laid out with cut lines. Print it at any pharmacy, photo kiosk or online print service as a standard 4×6 photo, then cut along the lines.
What does the free version include?
You can use the quality checks, cropping, all size presets and background removal where the selected document permits it, then download a watermarked preview for free. The one-time HD purchase removes the watermark and adds the print sheet.
What kind of photo should I start with?
Use a sharp, well-lit photo taken straight-on at eye level, with your full head and shoulders visible and some space around them. Avoid harsh shadows, hats and glasses.