PassportOwl
35×45 mm Rules checked Sep 30, 2026

German passport photo: size and rules

A German passport photo is 35 × 45 mm, printed. The head, from chin to crown, is 32–36 mm. Single colour, shadow-free, contrasting with face and hair. Glasses are allowed if there is no glare. Take yours at home with PassportOwl: checked against every rule, accepted or your money back.

Take your photo

Phone camera, webcam, or upload a photo you already have

  • Cropped to size and checked against every official rule
  • Pay only once it passes · Digital $11.99
  • Accepted or your money back, for photo reasons. Terms
Top of head Chin
35×45 mm Example that passes

German passport photo requirements

From the official source. We check each one on your photo.

Photo size 35 × 45 mm
Head size 1 1/4 to 1 3/8 in (32–36 mm), chin to top of head
Background Single colour, shadow-free, contrasting with face and hair
Print Colour, on matte or glossy photo paper
Glasses Allowed if there is no glare
Expression Neutral, mouth closed, both eyes open
Head covering Religious only; chin to forehead visible

Rules to know

Source: Passport for adults - German missions in the US , Lichtbild-Schablone (Bundesdruckerei) . Checked Sep 30, 2026. PassportOwl is not affiliated with any government.

Questions

What size is a German passport photo?

35×45 mm (35 × 45 mm). The head, from chin to crown, is 32–36 mm.

Can I use a US passport photo for my German passport?

No. A US passport photo is 2 × 2 inches; the German passport needs 35×45 mm, with a different head size.

Can I take a German passport photo at home?

Yes. Take it with your phone or webcam, or upload one. We crop it to 35×45 mm, check it against every official rule and show you the result before you pay.

Is it guaranteed?

Yes. If the German passport is turned down for a photo reason, we refund you in full and make you a new photo, free.

Can I wear glasses?

Glasses are allowed if there is no glare.

Other documents

UK passport photo 1200×1500 px UK visa photo 1200×1500 px Canadian passport photo 50×70 mm Canada visitor visa photo 35×45 mm Schengen visa photo 35×45 mm French passport photo 35×45 mm