Germany Passport Photo 35mm x 45mm requirements

Photo SizeWidth: 35 mm, Height: 45 mm
Resolution (DPI)600
Background colorWhite
Digital photo sizeWidth: 827 pixels, Height: 1063 pixels
Photo paper typeGlossy

1. Format and Dimensions

  • Photo Size: The photo must measure exactly 35 mm in width and 45 mm in height.
  • Face Size: The face must occupy 70–80% of the photo's height. This corresponds to a measurement of 32–36 mm from the tip of the chin to the top of the head (excluding the hair/hairstyle).
  • Tolerance boundaries: Photos will only be rejected if the face height drops below 27 mm or exceeds 40 mm.
  • Centering: The face must be perfectly centered within the frame, with the bridge of the nose aligned with the middle.

2. Photo Quality, Sharpness, and Contrast

  • Resolution and Paper: The photo should be printed on high-quality paper with a print resolution of at least 600 dpi (especially if taken digitally).
  • Sharpness: The entire face must be in sharp focus, clear, and feature distinct contrast.
  • Coloring: The photo can be in color or black-and-white. If in color, it must be color-neutral and accurately depict natural skin tones.
  • Condition: The photo must be clean and free of creases, ink stains, or any damage.

3. Lighting and Background

  • Lighting: The lighting must be uniform across the face. Red eyes, reflections, and facial shadows are strictly unacceptable.
  • Background: The background must be solid, plain, and a single light color (ideally a neutral gray). It should provide clear contrast against the subject's face and hair. For light hair, a medium-gray background is recommended; for dark hair, a light-gray background is ideal.
  • Exclusivity: No other people, objects, or background shadows are permitted in the frame.

4. Head Position and Facial Expression

  • Alignment: You must look straight into the camera; half-profiles, tilted, or turned head positions are not allowed.
  • Expression: The facial expression must remain entirely neutral, with eyes looking directly at the camera lens and the mouth closed.

5. Eyes and Glasses

  • Visibility: Eyes must be open, fully visible, and not obscured by hair or frames.
  • Glasses: If you wear glasses, they are permitted only if the lenses are completely clear (no tinted or sunglasses) and free from glare or reflection. The frames must not cover or obscure any part of your eyes.

6. Clothing and Head Coverings

  • Headwear: Head coverings (hats, caps, etc.) are generally forbidden.

  • Exception: Exceptions are permitted primarily for religious reasons. If a head covering is worn, the face must remain clearly visible from the tip of the chin to the forehead, and no shadows may be cast on the face.

  • Uniforms: Wearing parts of military or official uniforms in the photo is prohibited.

7. Special Rules for Children and Infants

  • Children up to age 10: The face height requirement is wider—occupying 50–80% of the photo (ideally 22–36 mm from chin to top of head). Rejection only occurs if the face height falls below 17 mm or exceeds 40 mm.
  • Infants and Toddlers (up to age 6): In addition to the relaxed sizing rules, adjustments are permitted for head position (though it must still be a frontal shot), facial expression, eye gaze/direction, and overall centering. No hands or supporting objects/persons can be visible in the image.

References


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