Austria

Austrian firearms carry permit photo (35×45 mm)

Required size: 35×45 mm (1.38×1.77 in). Your photo is processed on your device.

The issuing authority doesn't publish one photo size for this document, so the studio uses the size most often asked for. Check the current rules with the authority or organisation that issues it before you apply.

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Upload a portrait from your phone or take one with your camera.

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Photo requirements

  • Size: 35×45 mm (1.38×1.77 in)
  • Head size: not set by the authority
  • Background: Light grey
  • Privacy: Processed on your device; the photo is not uploaded

Background

Put an accepted colour behind you. This happens on your device.

Download or print

Download a single photo, or a sheet with several copies to print at a photo kiosk.

💡 Printing tip

Save the sheet to your phone or a USB drive and order it at a photo kiosk as a standard 4×6-inch print.

Choose an ordinary photo print, not the passport photo service.

Official specification

Official nameWaffenpass
How you hand it inPrinted photo
Photo size35×45 mm (1.38×1.77 in)
Head height (chin to top of head)Not set by the authority
BackgroundLight grey
GlassesTake them off, unless you can’t for medical reasons
Head coveringOnly for religious or medical reasons, with the face fully visible
ExpressionNeutral, mouth closed, eyes open

Preparing Your Photo for an Austrian Firearms Carry Permit

You need to submit one photo with your application for an Austrian firearms carry permit[1]. This guide uses the common Austrian photo size of 35 × 45 mm[2].

Official Size and Dimensions

The application page requires one photo but does not state its size[1]. A 35 × 45 mm crop is used here as a common practice size, not an official requirement. Check with the issuing authority about the required format.

When you prepare your picture at home, stand about two meters away from the camera. Ask a friend or family member to take the picture instead of taking a selfie, because holding the camera yourself often distorts your face and shoulders.

Head Size and Framing Rules

The general Austrian photo criteria say the head should take up about two-thirds of the photo[2]. They also set a minimum eye distance of 8 mm[2].

Keep your head straight and look directly into the camera lens. Make sure your shoulders are level and both ears are visible if possible.

Background and Lighting Setup

The application page does not state background requirements[1]. The general Austrian photo criteria recommend a plain, light background[2].

Use natural light from a window facing you to avoid harsh shadows on your face or behind your head. Turn off any overhead lights that create yellow or uneven skin tones.

Facial Expression and Mouth Rules

The general Austrian photo criteria call for a neutral expression and a closed mouth[2].

Relax your face and do not smile or frown. Keep your teeth completely covered and your lips pressed together normally.

Glasses and Eye Visibility

The general Austrian photo criteria do not allow tinted lenses, sunglasses, or reflections, and glasses must not obscure the eyes[2].

If your everyday glasses have heavy frames that cross your eyes, take them off for the picture to avoid any risk of rejection.

Headwear and Religious Exceptions

The general Austrian photo criteria allow head coverings for religious reasons[2]. They also allow exceptions when a person’s development or physical condition makes the usual criteria impossible to meet[2].

Printing and Submitting Your Photo

The application requires one photo[1]. The page does not specify a print format or size, so confirm the requirements with the issuing authority.

If you print a 35 × 45 mm photo, use smooth, glossy paper without a surface texture[2]. Print it at full scale without borders, then trim it to size.

Frequently asked questions

What size photo do I need for a Waffenpass?

The Waffenpass application page does not state a photo size[1]. This guide uses 35 × 45 mm, the general Austrian photo size[2]. Check with your local weapons authority if you are unsure.

Can I wear glasses in the photo?

Glasses are conditional[2]. If you wear them, your eyes must be fully visible with no glare on the lenses.

Do I need a digital or printed photo?

The application requires one photo[1]. The page does not say whether it must be printed.

Can I smile in my permit photo?

No, you must maintain a neutral expression with your mouth closed[2].

Are head coverings allowed?

Head coverings are allowed for religious reasons[2]. Source[2] also allows exceptions when a person’s development or physical condition makes the usual criteria impossible to meet.

Can I use a selfie for my application?

Selfies are not recommended because the close distance distorts facial features. Have someone else take the picture from a proper distance.