Austrian National ID Card Photo Requirements
Prepare your photo for the Austrian Personalausweis application by following official sizing and appearance rules.
Official Size and Dimensions
When you apply for an Austrian national ID card, you must submit a physical photo that meets strict official measurements[1]. The required size set by the authority is 35 by 45 millimetres, which is about 1.38 by 1.77 inches[1].
The authority does not set a specific minimum head height, but the maximum head height allowed is 36 millimetres[2]. You must check that your face fits well within these bounds so the office can process your paperwork without delay.
Use the tool above to crop your picture to the required size.
Background and Lighting
Use a plain, light background, preferably grey, with no pattern and enough contrast with your face and hair[2].
You should find a plain wall in your home that matches this light tone. Avoid any textured wallpaper, patterned curtains, or dark shadows falling behind your head.
Good lighting helps create the right contrast against the background. Face a bright window or use soft front lighting to make sure your face and hair stand out clearly without harsh shadows.
Facial Expression and Glasses
Your expression must meet clear standards when the camera captures your face[2]. You must maintain a neutral expression with your mouth closed during the photo shot[2].
Do not smile, frown, or open your mouth. Keep your facial muscles relaxed and look straight into the camera lens.
You may wear glasses if your eyes remain visible and the lenses have no reflections or tint[2].
Headwear and Religious Exceptions
Head coverings are allowed for religious or medical reasons[2].
If you wear a head covering for religious or medical purposes, it must not cast shadows on your face. Your entire face from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead must remain completely visible.
Head coverings are not allowed outside the religious or medical exceptions[2].
Special Rules for Children
Applying for an Austrian national ID for a baby or young child requires careful attention to specific rules[2]. Children must appear alone, face fully visible and eyes open[2].
No hands, toys, or adult clothing can appear in the frame with the child. If you are photographing an infant, lay them down on a plain light grey blanket that matches the background rules.
Take multiple photos to catch the child with an open gaze and a neutral mouth. Patience is key when photographing young children for official documents.
Printing and Submission Requirements
Submit one recent colour photo, no older than six months[1][2].
The applicant supplies the photo for the card[1].
You can use the tool above to arrange your cropped 35 by 45 millimetre photo onto a standard 4 by 6 inch photo sheet. You can then print this sheet at a local store or kiosk as a cheap, ordinary photo print and cut it out at home.
Tips for Taking Your Photo at Home
Taking your ID photo at home saves time and money if you follow practical steps. Ask a friend or family member to use a digital camera or smartphone rather than taking a selfie, because selfies distort facial proportions.
Keep the camera at eye level and stand far enough from the wall to avoid shadows.
Check your photo on a screen to confirm the lighting is even and your eyes are open. Once you are happy with the shot, run it through the cropping tool to prepare your print.
Frequently asked questions
What is the official size for an Austrian national ID photo?
The official size required by the authority is 35 by 45 millimetres[1].
Can I wear glasses in my Austrian ID photo?
Glasses are conditional[2], meaning they must not obscure your eyes or cast dark shadows on your face.
What colour should the background be?
The background must be plain, light, preferably grey; with no pattern and sufficient contrast with face and hair[2].