Free German Passport Photo Maker
Use our free AI maker to snap and generate a compliant German Passport photo. Exact 35x45mm (1.4x1.8 in) dimensions with a light grey background at 300 DPI.
Requirements Summary
Dimensions
35 x 45 mm
1.4 x 1.8 inches
Resolution
300 DPI
Min 413x531px
Background
Light grey
Head Size
70% — 80%
of photo height
Eye Position
55%
from bottom
Official Requirements
- Photo must be 35x45mm
- Uniform light background (white, off-white or light grey), no patterns
- Background must contrast well with face, hair and clothing
- Face height 32-36mm from chin to top of head (70-80% of image)
- Face width 16-20mm from ear to ear
- Space from top of hair to top of photo: 3mm
- Sharp, high contrast, not blurred; optimal resolution 600 dpi
- Neutral expression or natural smile, mouth closed
- As of May 2025: only digital biometric photos accepted (transmitted electronically)
- No glasses
Apply officially
Once your photo is ready, submit your application via the official Germany government portal.
Open official portal ↗Frequently Asked Questions
What size is a German passport photo?
A German passport photo is 35×45 mm — the standard EU biometric size. The face must measure 32–36 mm chin-to-crown (70–80% of photo height) and 16–20 mm ear-to-ear. There must be a 3 mm gap between the top of the hair and the top of the photo. Germany's spec is among the strictest in Europe.
Are paper photos still accepted for German passports in 2026?
Only until May 2025. From May 2025 onwards, the German Bundesdruckerei requires only digital biometric photos transmitted electronically from approved photo studios or self-service Fotoautomaten directly to the Bürgeramt. Paper photos are no longer accepted at most Bürgeramt offices.
Where can I get a digital biometric photo in Germany?
Approved Bundesdruckerei Fotoautomaten ("Pix Lounge" or similar branded biometric photo booths) at most Bürgeramt offices, train stations, and DHL Paketshops cost €6–10 and transmit the photo digitally with a verification code. Photo studios with the Bundesdruckerei certification (look for the official sticker) provide the same service for €15–25.
What background color does a German passport photo need?
Uniform light background — white, off-white, or light grey. The background must contrast clearly with face, hair, and clothing. Patterns, shadows, or dark backgrounds are rejected. The Bundesdruckerei system flags non-compliant backgrounds automatically during digital submission.
Can I smile or wear glasses in a German passport photo?
A small natural closed-mouth smile is technically allowed (Germany is more permissive than France or the UK), but a neutral expression is safer. Glasses are not allowed — even prescription glasses must be removed. Sunglasses or tinted lenses are never accepted.
How recent must a German passport photo be?
Within the last 6 months. The Bürgeramt checks for recent likeness. With the May 2025 transition to digital-only photos, the Bundesdruckerei system also verifies the timestamp via the photo's digital signature — backdating an old photo is not possible.
Going to Germany?
Skip airport SIM kiosks. An Airalo eSIM works the moment you land — no roaming fees, no swapping cards.
Get a Germany eSIMAffiliate link · we may earn a small commission, no extra cost to you.
Pro Tips
- Use natural, even lighting
- Keep a neutral expression
- Look directly into the lens
- Remove glasses and hats
