German Passport Photo Specifications
| Specification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Photo size | 35 × 45 mm |
| Face height (chin to crown) | 32–36 mm |
| Face coverage | 70–80% of the frame |
| Background | Uniform light grey (no white) |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed, no smile |
| Glasses | Not allowed (since November 2017) |
| Biometric | Yes — ISO/IEC 19794-5 compliant |
| Recency | Within 6 months |
| Print quality | High resolution, matte or semi-matte finish |
Detailed Requirements
Face and Expression
Germany has some of the strictest biometric photo requirements in Europe. Your face must be perfectly centered and occupy 70–80% of the photo height. Expression must be completely neutral — no smile, no raised eyebrows, mouth closed. Both eyes must be open and looking directly at the camera. The face must be evenly lit with no shadows on either side.
Background
Germany specifically requires a uniform light grey background — pure white is not accepted. The background must be completely free of patterns, shadows, and objects. This is one of the most common reasons German passport photos get rejected.
Glasses Policy
Since November 2017, glasses are completely banned in German biometric photos. This applies to all types of eyewear including prescription glasses, sunglasses, and tinted lenses. Remove all eyewear before taking your photo.
Head Position
Your head must be perfectly straight — not tilted, turned, or rotated. The imaginary line between your eyes must be horizontal. Your face must be directly facing the camera. Germany uses automated biometric verification, so even slight tilts can cause rejection.
Head Coverings
Head coverings are not allowed unless worn for documented religious reasons. Even then, the face must be fully visible from the bottom of the chin to the top of the forehead, and both edges of the face must be clearly visible.
What Documents Use This Photo?
- Reisepass — German passport
- Personalausweis — National ID card
- Aufenthaltstitel — Residence permit
- Schengen-Visum — Schengen visa applications through Germany
- Führerschein — Driving license (biometric since 2013)
Common Rejection Reasons in Germany
- White background — Must be light grey, not white
- Glasses worn — Not allowed since 2017
- Head tilted — Must be perfectly straight
- Shadows on face — Lighting must be completely even
- Face too small or too large — Must be 32–36mm chin to crown
- Expression not neutral — No smile, mouth closed
- Eyes not fully open — Both eyes must be clearly visible
- Photo too old — Must be within 6 months
Cost Comparison
| Option | Cost |
|---|---|
| Fotoautomat (photo booth) | €6–€10 |
| Professional photographer | €10–€20 |
| dm / Rossmann photo service | €6–€8 |
| WithSwag (at home) | €3.00 |
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