Germany · not possible online
Germany Passport / ID card Photo (35×45 mm)
Germany Passport / ID card photos can't be made online: since May 2025 Germany only accepts photos taken at the citizens' office terminal or uploaded by a certified photographer; self-made digital photos can't be used. Here is what the official rules say (35×45 mm, head 32–36 mm from chin to crown, single-colour background), and how to get a photo that is accepted the first time.
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Where to get it instead
Why online tools don't work: since May 2025 Germany only accepts photos taken at the citizens' office terminal or uploaded by a certified photographer; self-made digital photos can't be used.
“Selbst erstellte digitale Fotos (zum Beispiel mit Smartphone-Apps) können nicht verwendet werden.”Official guidance
Book a photo studio or a pharmacy photo counter that takes Germany Passport / ID card photos, and bring the requirements below so you can check the photo before you leave.
Official requirements
- Print size
- 35×45 mm
- Head size
- Das Gesicht nimmt 70 bis 80 % der Höhe des Fotos ein. (children: 50–80 %)
- Background
- Der schattenfreie Hintergrund ist einfarbig und bildet zum Gesicht sowie zu den Haaren einen deutlichen Kontrast.
- Glasses
- eyes clearly visible; no frame covering eyes, no too-dark lenses, no reflection
- Head covering
- Kopfbedeckungen sind nur aus religiösen Gründen zulässig; face visible from lower chin edge to forehead
- Expression
- neutral, looking straight into camera, mouth closed
Sources: wien.diplo.de, sachsen.de, duisburg.de, stadt-koeln.de. Last checked Nov 7, 2026.
What counts as an altered photo
“Die Farben und insbesondere der Hautton werden auf dem Foto realitätsgetreu wiedergegeben. [error examples: 'Mit Retuschen/Filter', 'Weichzeichnen']”Official rule
Germany Passport / ID card photo questions
Can I take my own Germany Passport / ID card photo at home?
No. The official rules require the photo to be taken by a professional or on site. The official guidance: “Selbst erstellte digitale Fotos (zum Beispiel mit Smartphone-Apps) können nicht verwendet werden.”
Can I wear glasses in my Germany Passport / ID card photo?
The official rule: “eyes clearly visible; no frame covering eyes, no too-dark lenses, no reflection.”
Can I smile in my Germany Passport / ID card photo?
The official rule: “neutral, looking straight into camera, mouth closed.”
Can I wear a hat or head covering?
The official rule: “Kopfbedeckungen sind nur aus religiösen Gründen zulässig; face visible from lower chin edge to forehead.”
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