🇩🇪 Germany Passport Photo Requirements (2026 Guide)
Photo Dimensions
German passport photos must be 35 mm wide x 45 mm tall (1.38 x 1.77 inches), following the European biometric standard. For digital submissions, the resolution should be 413 x 531 pixels at 300 DPI.
Biometric Standard
Germany enforces strict biometric photo requirements (biometrisches Passfoto). The face must be positioned precisely for automated facial recognition systems. The eyes must be at a specific height in the frame, and the face must be perfectly centred. German authorities are among the strictest in Europe when it comes to biometric compliance.
Background Requirements
The background must be white or light grey, uniform and without shadows, patterns, or other objects. The background should provide clear contrast with the face and hair.
Face and Expression
A neutral expression with mouth closed is required. No smiling. Both eyes must be open and clearly visible, looking directly at the camera. The head height must be 32-36 mm from chin to crown. The face must be symmetrically positioned.
Glasses
Glasses are not allowed in German passport photos for new applications since 2024. This change was made to improve biometric recognition accuracy. Previously, glasses were allowed with restrictions.
Head Coverings
Head coverings are not allowed except for religious reasons, with a signed declaration required. The full face must remain visible from the bottom of the chin to the top of the forehead.
Photo Recency
Photos must have been taken within the last 6 months and must accurately reflect your current appearance.
How Germany Compares to the US
| Requirement | Germany | United States |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 35 x 45 mm (rectangular) | 51 x 51 mm (square) |
| Pixels | 413 x 531 | 600 x 600 |
| Background | White or light grey | White or off-white |
| Glasses | Not allowed | Allowed (no glare) |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed | Neutral or natural smile |
| Standard | Strict biometric | Standard ICAO |
Common Mistakes
- Wearing glasses: Since 2024, glasses are not permitted in new German passport photos. Remove all eyewear.
- Non-biometric positioning: Germany has precise requirements for face centering and eye height. Professional photographers in Germany are trained for this.
- Incorrect expression: Even the slightest smile can cause rejection. Maintain a completely neutral face.
- Using US dimensions: Germany uses 35x45mm, not the US 2x2 inch format.
- Shadows: Any shadow on the face or background will result in rejection due to biometric scanning requirements.
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