Germany photo documents Guide

German passport photo requirements

Like many countries, you can’t get a German passport without having appropriate photos. Submitting pictures that do not meet guidelines is one of the main reasons for application delays or disapprovals.

Here’s what you need to know about the German passport photo requirements:

• You must submit two identical photos if applying offline.
• The photo dimensions must be 35 mm by 45 mm.
• Your face should occupy 70–80% of the photo.
• A resolution of 600 DPI is required for clarity and detail.

• Your photo should be in color to reflect your natural skin tone.
• Ensure the pictures were taken within the last six months.
• The photo must be sharp, clear, and well-contrasted against a one-color, bright background—ideally, a neutral gray.
• Your photo must be free from patterns and shadows.
• Your head should be straight, facing the camera
• Each picture should be printed on high-quality photo paper.

• A neutral expression is mandatory with your mouth closed and eyes open.
• Glasses are allowed as long as there is no glare or tinting, and they do not cover the eyes.
• The eyes must be visible and not obscured by hair or eyeglass frames.
• Headgear is generally not permitted except for religious reasons and must not hide facial features.

Passport photo guidelines for infants and newborns

When securing passport photos for your little ones, understanding the flexible guidelines is essential to a smooth process. In other words, children must meet the same standards as adults mentioned earlier, but with some leniency.

Here’s what you need to know to capture compliant photos of your children.

• For children aged 5 to 9: Their facial height should span between 22mm and 36mm within the photo. This range ensures their face is appropriately proportioned within the frame.
• For toddlers aged 1 to 5: More flexibility is allowed in their expressions. They’re not required to maintain a neutral expression or to face the camera directly. However, their eyes should be open to ensure clarity of identity.
• For infants under one year: The strictest rules are relaxed. It’s acceptable for infants to have their eyes closed and their heads slightly turned or not entirely centered.
• Clutter-free imagery: Ensure the photo is focused solely on the child. Avoid objects, such as toys, hands, or pacifiers, that might distract or obscure the child’s features.

Adhering to these guidelines will ensure that your German passport photo meets all necessary criteria, eliminating potential delays in your application process.