How to Prepare Your Photo for an Austrian EEA Citizen ID Card
You need a recent photo when you apply for an Austrian photo ID card as an EEA citizen or Swiss national[1]. The tool above helps you crop your picture to the right size before you print it.
Official Size and Dimensions
When you apply for an Austrian photo ID card as an EEA citizen or Swiss national, you need to provide a valid picture[1]. The official size accepted by the Austrian settlement authorities is between 35 by 45 millimeters and 40 by 50 millimeters[1]. For this page, 35 by 45 millimeters is used as the standard crop size[1]. This measures about 1.38 by 1.77 inches[1]. You can use the tool above to crop your image to these exact dimensions.
The application page does not specify a head-height rule[1].
Background and Lighting Requirements
The official application page does not specify any background wording or color for your photo[1]. You can use a plain wall or a simple backdrop behind you. A neutral background helps keep the focus entirely on your face.
Good lighting is very important for a clear picture. Stand facing a bright window to catch soft, even light across your face. Avoid standing under harsh overhead lights that cast dark shadows under your eyes or nose. If you use indoor lamps, place them in front of you rather than behind you. Make sure the background is evenly lit and free of dark spots.
Glasses and Face Appearance
The application page does not specify rules for glasses[1].
The application page does not specify rules for headwear, expression, or mouth position[1]. Ask the settlement authority if you need guidance on these details.
Taking Your Photo at Home
You can take the photo at home with a camera or smartphone if you prefer.
Keep the camera at your exact eye level. Stand about one to one and a half meters away from the camera lens. Make sure your entire face and your upper shoulders fit nicely inside the frame. Take several test shots so you can pick the clearest one.
Rules for Children and Teens
Special rules apply when you submit applications for younger family members. There is a reduced fee for persons under 16 years of age[1]. However, the official guidelines do not list any distinct photo rules for infants or young children[1].
The application page does not specify separate photo rules for children[1].
Printing and Submitting Your Photo
The application page asks for a recent photo[1]. Follow the authority’s instructions for the required submission format.
You can take this image file to any local store or kiosk that prints photos. Print it out as an ordinary 4 by 6 inch photograph on glossy or matte paper. Use a pair of sharp scissors or a paper cutter to trim the photo carefully along the crop lines before your appointment.
Common Reasons Photos Are Refused
The application page does not list photo rejection criteria[1].
The authority asks for a recent photo[1].
Frequently asked questions
What is the official photo size for the Austrian EEA photo ID?
The Austrian settlement authorities accept a recent photo between 35 by 45 millimeters and 40 by 50 millimeters, and 35 by 45 millimeters is used here as the crop size[1].
Does the authority set a specific head height requirement?
No, the head height is not set by the authority[1].
What color should the background be?
No background wording or colour is specified on the cited application page[1].
Are there special photo rules for children?
There is a reduced fee for persons under 16, but no distinct photo rules are specified[1].
Do I need a printed photo or a digital file?
This application requires a printed photo[1].