German ID card photo (35×45 mm)

Digital Submission Rules for Domestic Applications

When applying for new passport and ID documents domestically, photos must be submitted digitally^[1]. The photo must be created electronically and then transmitted to the ID authority using a secure procedure^[2]. For these documents, paper passport photos may no longer be accepted^[1].

The 35×45 mm paper-photo exception applies to applications abroad only when the authority cannot capture the photo electronically. For domestic applications, the photo must be created electronically and securely transmitted^[2][1].

Size and Face Proportions

The authority publishes no single official size, but 35×45 mm is the size most often asked for by studios. You should always confirm the exact expectations with your issuing office before you start your application process.

The face must occupy 70–80% of the photo’s height, and the head must be upright and centered^[3].

The tool above can help you rehearse and check your photo proportions easily in your browser before you finalize your digital files.

Background and Lighting Requirements

You need a uniform, shadow-free background with clear contrast against your face and hair^[3]. The authority does not specify a color^[3]. Avoid using patterned walls, textured wallpaper, or dark backdrops that blend with your hair or clothing.

To take a good photo at home, face a window to get soft and even natural light. Stand a small distance away from the background wall to prevent any shadows from forming behind your head or shoulders. Good lighting eliminates harsh dark spots and keeps your facial features clearly visible to the office scanners. Taking your picture during daylight hours near a large window provides the best illumination without requiring studio equipment.

Facial Expression, Glasses, and Headwear

Your facial expression must be neutral with your mouth closed^[3]. Do not smile, frown, smirk, or open your mouth when the picture is taken.

Your eyes must be clearly visible and unobstructed^[3]. Glasses may be worn if they do not obscure the eyes^[3].

Head coverings are permitted for religious reasons; the authority may also allow medical exceptions^[3]. Keep your face visible.

Rules for Children and Infants

Special allowances exist for younger applicants taking ID photos. Children's faces should occupy 50 to 80 percent of the photo height, and minor deviations are allowed up to age 10^[3].

Until the age of six, further exceptions to head position, facial expression, and visibility of the eyes are allowed^[3]. These rules make it easier for parents to capture valid images of babies and toddlers who cannot keep a rigid posture or neutral expression. Taking multiple shots gives you a better chance of meeting these flexible requirements for young children. Patience and natural lighting help tremendously when photographing restless infants.

Preparing Your Photo with the Tool

The tool above can help you rehearse, check a photo, or prepare a copy for other uses. It lets you crop your image directly in your browser without uploading your file to a remote server, meaning your photo never leaves your device.

While domestic applications require secure digital submission through official channels, preparing your copy ahead of time helps you review your framing and lighting before your appointment. Using this free browser utility saves time and helps you understand how standard ID proportions look on your image. It offers a convenient way to check your framing at home.