German Residence Permit Photo Information
Learn what the rules say about photos for a German electronic residence permit (Elektronischer Aufenthaltstitel, or eAT). Ask your local foreigners authority how it handles photo capture or submission.
Official Size and Document Basics
A residence permit photo must meet the incorporated PassV photo requirements[1]. The 35×45 mm size is a common crop size, not a specific size set by the cited authority. Contact your local Ausländerbehörde about its photo procedure.
The authority may ask you to provide a current photo or take part in having one made[1]. Ask your local foreigners authority how to submit the photo. Procedures vary by location.
Background and Lighting Rules
Your photo must meet the PassV requirements, including a uniform, light, neutral background[1].
To get clean lighting, stand facing a bright window and let natural daylight fall evenly across your face. Avoid standing under harsh overhead lights that create heavy shadows under your eyes, nose, and chin. Try to wear a dark shirt so your shoulders stand out clearly against the light background. Avoid wearing white or very pale tops that blend into the wall behind you. Make sure there are no shadows on the wall directly behind your head. Turn off any lamps that cast yellow or uneven light tones onto your skin.
Facial Expression, Glasses, and Headwear
Your photo must show a neutral expression with your mouth closed[1]. Look directly into the camera lens without smiling, frowning, or raising your eyebrows. Keep your facial muscles relaxed so your natural appearance shows clearly.
Glasses are allowed conditionally. The cited regulation does not list specific conditions for glasses. It says the photo must meet the PassV requirements and show the person clearly. The authority may allow or require an exception to the rule against head coverings if the person can still be identified[1]. Ask your local authority about its requirements.
Rules for Children and Minors
Children also need an individual residence document with a portrait. Ask the local foreigners authority how it handles photo capture or submission for children.
Photographing a newborn or toddler can be tricky, so try laying the child flat on a plain, light-colored sheet on the floor. Stand directly above the child and take the picture while they look up. Make sure their face is fully visible, their eyes are open, and their mouth is closed. For older children, have them sit on a chair in front of a plain wall while you hold the camera at their eye level. Patience helps when working with young kids, so take a few extra test shots to catch a moment where they look straight ahead.
Taking Your Photo at Home
Ask your local foreigners authority whether it accepts a photo you take yourself or requires another photo procedure.
If your authority accepts a photo you take yourself, ask it for the required image format and composition before taking or cropping the picture.
Checking Your Photo
Before you print or submit your image, look closely at the details. Check that your ears, eyes, and chin are fully visible and unobstructed.
The photo must comply with the PassV requirements and show you clearly[1]. Ask your local authority about any additional image checks it uses.
Printing and Submitting Your Photo
Photo capture or submission procedures vary by local authority[1][2]. Ask your Ausländerbehörde whether it requires you to provide a photo or will take one for you.
Ask your local foreigners authority whether it requires you to provide a photo or will take one for you[1].
Frequently asked questions
What is the official photo size for a German residence permit?
The cited law requires the photo to meet the PassV requirements, but these sources do not set a 35×45 mm size for the residence permit photo[1].
Can I wear glasses in my residence permit photo?
The cited regulation does not specify conditions for glasses. Ask your local foreigners authority about its requirements[1].
Do children need their own residence permit photo?
What background color is required?
The photo must meet the PassV requirements[1]. The cited sources do not specify a background color or description.
Who processes the residence permit application?
The local foreigners authority is responsible for the photo procedure described in §60[1].