German Biometric Photo (Biometrisches Passbild 35 × 45 mm)
The German format is the classic 35×45 mm biometric photo with the face 32–36 mm tall. But since May 2025, Germany no longer accepts printed or DIY photos for German passports and ID cards — read this first.
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1. Choose a photo — front-facing, even light, plain light background.
2. Adjust — drag to move, slider to zoom.
3. Optional: replace background
⚠️ Many authorities reject photos that are digitally altered. For the safest result, take the photo against a plain light wall and skip this step.
Background editing is disabled for this photo type because the issuing authority prohibits edited or background-replaced photos. Use a real plain wall.
4. Checks
- Waiting for a photo
Automated checks are guides only — they can't judge expression, glasses, shadows or focus.
5. Download (free)
Requirements at a glance
| Photo size | 35 × 45 mm (1.38 × 1.77 in) |
|---|---|
| Digital output (this tool) | 413 × 531 px JPEG |
| Head height (chin to crown) | 32–36 mm |
| Background | plain, light, ideally neutral light grey |
| Print resolution | 300 DPI |
| Photos per 4×6 / A4 sheet | 8 / 36 |
| Background editing | avoid; optional tool available |
Official source: https://www.personalausweisportal.de/SharedDocs/faqs/Webs/PA/DE/Haeufige-Fragen/2_biometrie_faq/biometrie-liste.html and Bundesdruckerei photo template. Checked 2026-10-20. Rules change — always confirm with the issuing authority before applying.
Important: domestic DIY limitation
Since 1 May 2025, photos for German passports (Reisepass), ID cards (Personalausweis) and electronic residence permits must be submitted digitally: either taken at the Bürgeramt/Behörde, or by a registered photo provider who transfers the image over a certified secure cloud and gives you a code. The transition period for paper photos ended on 31 July 2025. A photo made with this tool cannot be used for German passport or ID applications in Germany.
The format is still useful for other documents that accept a 35×45 biometric print: Schengen visa applications at German missions, some driving-licence and residence applications abroad, and many non-German forms. Always check the authority's current rules.
Biometric format (Bundesdruckerei template)
- Size 35 mm × 45 mm.
- Face height (chin to top of head) 32–36 mm for people over 10; children under 10 have a wider range, and babies under 6 years have more relaxed rules.
- Frontal view, neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open and clearly visible.
- Background uniform and light, ideally neutral light grey so that both light and dark hair contrast; no shadows.
- Glasses allowed if the eyes are clearly visible with no reflections and no tinted lenses; head coverings only for religious reasons.
How to use this preset
Stand in front of a light grey wall if you have one, face a window, keep your head straight, and upload. The head-height lines show 32 and 36 mm above your chin. A 4×6 sheet holds eight photos; an A4 sheet holds 36.
Visa photos for Germany
For a German Schengen visa, the same 35×45 ICAO format applies — see our Schengen visa photo page. Visa centres also take your fingerprints and may capture a live photo.
How to make a Germany biometric photo with this tool
- Pick a photo taken in the last few months against a plain, light, ideally neutral light grey background, face lit evenly from the front.
- The tool finds your face and scales it so the head is about 34 mm tall on a 35 × 45 mm (1.38 × 1.77 in) photo.
- Drag or zoom until every check is green.
- Download the 413×531 px JPG for online forms, or a 4×6 sheet with 8 photos to print.
FAQ
Can I make my own German passport photo?
Not any more for German passports and ID cards. Since May 2025 the photo must be taken at the office or sent digitally by a registered photo provider.
What size is a German biometric photo?
35 x 45 mm with the face 32 to 36 mm from chin to top of head.
What background colour for a German biometric photo?
Uniform and light; a neutral light grey is recommended.
Can I use this for a German Schengen visa?
Yes, the 35x45 biometric format is used for Schengen visa applications, but check your visa centre's rules.