German passport (Reisepass) photo size and requirements

A German passport (Reisepass) photo must be 35 × 45 mm (1.38 × 1.77 in) on a plain single colour, shadow-free, clearly contrasting with face and hair background. Use the tool below to crop yours to the exact size.

Size: 35 × 45 mm (1.38 × 1.77 in)
Head size: 70–80% of the photo height
Background: plain single colour, shadow-free, clearly contrasting with face and hair
Glasses: allowed if eyes clearly visible; frames must not cover eyes; no too-dark lenses or reflections

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Other rules for German passport (Reisepass) photos

Face from chin tip to top of head fills 70-80% of photo height
BMI template (age 10+): optimal face height 32-36 mm on a 35 x 45 mm photo, with a tolerated band outside it
Children: face fills 50-80% of photo height; small deviations allowed up to age 10; more exceptions up to age 6
Since 1 May 2025 paper photos are not accepted in Germany: photo is taken at the office or sent electronically by a registered photo studio
Abroad, paper photos 45 x 35 mm portrait, borderless, are still accepted
Head centred and straight, neutral expression, mouth closed, looking into camera
Even lighting, no reflections, no red eye; true-to-life skin tones; digital photos in colour
No retouching or filters; head covering only for religious reasons (face chin to forehead visible)
Exceptions only for long-term medical reasons

Frequently asked questions

What size is a German passport (Reisepass) photo?

35 × 45 mm (1.38 × 1.77 in).

What background is required for a German passport (Reisepass) photo?

A plain single colour, shadow-free, clearly contrasting with face and hair background, plain and without shadows or patterns.

How big should the head be in a German passport (Reisepass) photo?

The head should measure 70–80% of the photo height.

Can I wear glasses in a German passport (Reisepass) photo?

Allowed if eyes clearly visible; frames must not cover eyes; no too-dark lenses or reflections.

Other photo sizes

Source: official requirements. Not yet confirmed on an official source: eyeLine (template shows an eye band but gives no numbers), pixels/file rules for the electronic photo transfer, specific background colour. The consulate or passport office makes the final decision on whether a photo is accepted.