Austria Passport Photo 35mm x 45mm requirements

1. Format and Size

• Dimensions: The photo must be 35 mm x 45 mm.
• Head Size: The head (from chin to the top of the head) must occupy between 70% and 80% of the vertical height of the image (approx. 32–36 mm).
• Centering: The head must be centered in the frame.

2. Quality and Lighting

• Sharpness: The image must be in sharp focus, clear, and high-contrast.
• Lighting: The face must be evenly illuminated. No shadows (e.g., from hair or glasses), reflections, or "red-eye" effects are permitted.
• Paper Quality: If submitted in physical form, the photo must be printed on high-quality, high-resolution paper (minimum 600 dpi) and must not have any creases or ink marks.

3. Background

• Color: A solid, light-colored background is required, preferably light gray.
• Contrast: There must be a clear contrast between the person and the background. The background must be neutral and free of patterns or other objects/people.

4. Facial Expression and Head Position

• Pose: You must look directly into the camera (frontal view). The head should not be tilted or turned.
• Expression: A neutral facial expression is mandatory. The mouth must be closed, and eyes must be open and clearly visible.
• Eyes: Your eyes must not be covered by hair or eyeglass frames.

5. Glasses and Headwear

• Glasses: If you wear glasses, they must not have tinted lenses or reflections. The frames must not obscure any part of the eyes.
• Head Coverings: Generally not allowed. Exceptions are made for religious reasons, provided that the face remains fully visible from the chin to the forehead.
• Uniforms: Photos should ideally be taken in civilian clothing.

6. Recency

• Age of Photo: The photo must not be older than six months to ensure an up-to-date resemblance.

7. Special Rules for Children

• For infants and young children, no other person or object (like a pacifier or a parent's hand) may be visible in the frame. The background must remain neutral. While a neutral expression is preferred, some leniency is often applied to very young infants.

References

• Federal Ministry of the Interior, Austra: Passport Photo Criteria