Germany Passport Photo Online
Create biometric-compliant German passport photos with the required light grey background. Since May 2025, Germany only accepts digital photos taken at certified terminals or online tools.
Access may vary by region
Germany Passport Photo Requirements
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Photo Size | 35x45mm / 3.5x4.5cm / 1.38x1.77 inches |
| Pixels | 413x531px |
| Background Color | gray#E5E5E5 |
| Glasses | Not allowed |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed |
| Head Height | 70-80% of photo height |
| Max File Size | No limit specified |
35x45mm. Light grey background. Face 32-36mm. Digital-only since May 2025.
Our tool already applies the latest official photo requirements.
About Germany Passport Photo Requirements
Germany has some of the strictest biometric passport photo requirements in the world. Since May 2025, only digital photos are accepted — taken either at certified biometric terminals in municipal offices or through approved online tools. The 35x45mm photo must have a light grey background, not white.
German biometric standards require precise face positioning: the head height must be 32-36mm, and the face must be centered with a neutral expression. Glasses are not allowed even if you normally wear them. The photo must comply with ICAO 9303 biometric data requirements, as the image is stored electronically in the passport chip.
Germany's digital-only policy means you can no longer bring printed photos from a photo studio. The photo file must meet specific technical parameters for storage in the biometric passport's RFID chip, including correct colour space and resolution.
Common Mistakes in German Passport Photos
Using a white background
Germany requires a light grey background (not white). This is different from most countries. Our tool applies the correct grey tone (approximately #E5E5E5) that meets the Bundesdruckerei specifications.
Wearing glasses
Glasses are prohibited in German biometric passport photos, regardless of whether they are prescription or non-prescription. This rule applies to all German identity documents.
Non-neutral expression
German authorities enforce strict biometric neutrality. Any smile, raised eyebrows, or other expression will fail the biometric verification. Look directly at the camera with a completely relaxed face.
Incorrect face proportion
The face must occupy 70-80% of the photo height, which is stricter than many other countries. Being too far from or too close to the camera shifts this proportion outside the accepted range.
Germany Passport Photo FAQ
Germany passport photos must be 35x45mm (413x531 pixels). Background must be gray. Glasses are not allowed. Expression must be neutral with mouth closed.
Our German passport photo service costs $6.99 (approx. €6.40) for digital download, or $8.99 with a print template. Traditional photo booths at dm or Rossmann charge €6-10, and photographers charge €10-15. Since May 2025, only digital photos are accepted, making our online service the most convenient option.
Yes! Our AI checks all Bundesdruckerei biometric requirements including the light grey background, 32-36mm face height, neutral expression, glasses prohibition, and ICAO 9303 compliance. We guarantee your photo will be accepted for Personalausweis and Reisepass applications, or your money back.
Your German passport photo is ready in seconds. Since May 2025, Germany only accepts digital photos — download the file and bring it on a USB drive to your local Bürgeramt, or use it with the municipality's online appointment system where available. No need to visit a Fotostudio first.
Since Germany switched to digital-only photos in 2025, printing is generally not needed. However, the $8.99 package still includes a print template if you need physical copies for other German documents. The file is formatted to meet the Bundesdruckerei's digital specifications.