Liechtenstein Biometric Residence Permit Photo Rules
Learn the official size, submission rules, and procedures for your Liechtenstein biometric residence permit photo.
Overview of the Liechtenstein Biometric Residence Permit
The Ausländer- und Passamt issues the Biometrischer Aufenthaltsausweis to eligible residents from outside the EU and EFTA[1]. For most applicants, the office captures the biometric face image in person[1]. Children under 2 may submit a photo digitally or have it taken at the office[1].
The biometric residence permit is a key document for foreign nationals living in Liechtenstein. Understanding how your photo is collected helps you prepare for your appointment or digital submission. Whether you visit the office or upload an image for a young child, knowing the basic expectations saves time.
Understanding Size and Dimension Specifications
The authority does not state a photo size or head-height measurement for the residence permit in the cited page text[1]. The 35×45 mm crop is a practical suggestion based on the related passport photo guide, not an official residence-permit requirement[2]. Check with the Ausländer- und Passamt if you need to prepare a photo.
A 35×45 mm crop is a practical suggestion based on the related Liechtenstein passport photo guide; the authority does not publish it as a residence-permit requirement[2].
Taking the Photo at Home
If you are preparing a digital photo for a child under 2 at home, simple steps make the process easier. Find a spot with soft, even light from a window. Avoid harsh shadows on the face or behind the head. Stand or sit about two meters away from the camera if possible, or have a helper hold the child steady.
Keep the background plain and neutral so the face stands out clearly. Look directly at the lens with a calm expression. If you use a tool to crop the image, check that the chin and top of the head fit nicely inside the frame with some space around the edges.
Special Rules for Children Under Two Years Old
For children under 2, the authority allows you to submit the photo digitally through its online form or have it taken at the Ausländer- und Passamt[1]. The authority also provides photo criteria for this age group[2].
Infant photos can be challenging to take because babies move quickly. Laying the infant on a plain white or light sheet can help if they cannot sit upright yet. Make sure the eyes are open and the mouth is closed if possible, following general infant photo guidelines found in the official criteria document[2].
Background, Glasses, and Unspecified Rules
The residence-permit page does not specify these details for applicants generally[1]. For children under 2, the authority says the background should be plain and preferably white, light gray, or light blue; the child’s eyes must be open and the mouth closed[2].
The authority does not state general rules for glasses, headwear, or facial expression on the residence-permit page[1].
Preparing Digital Files and Using Practice Tools
For a child under 2, the photo can be submitted through the online form or taken at the office[1]. The cited sources do not give a digital file-size limit or a required 35×45 mm crop for the residence permit[1][2].
When preparing your file, keep the image clear and sharp. Avoid heavy filters, digital touch-ups, or editing that changes your natural appearance. If you crop your image using an online tool, check that the file format is widely accepted, such as JPEG, before you try to upload it through the online portal.
Before You Go
Adult applicants do not need to bring a printed photo; the authority captures the biometric face image, fingerprints, and signature on site[1]. Check your appointment details and follow the authority’s instructions about documents to bring.
If you are visiting the office for a child under 2, you can choose to have the photo taken right there instead of uploading it online[1]. Call the Ausländer- und Passamt if you have questions about whether you need to bring your child to the appointment.
Confirming Details and Final Application Steps
For most applicants, the office captures the face image in person[1]. Children under 2 may submit a photo digitally or have it taken at the office[1]. Contact the Ausländer- und Passamt with questions about your application.
Double-check all requirements on the official website before you submit your forms or attend your meeting. Rules and procedures can update over time, so speaking directly with office staff is the best way to confirm your specific next steps[1].
Frequently asked questions
What is the official size for a Liechtenstein residence permit photo?
The authority publishes no single official size for the Biometrischer Aufenthaltsausweis, so the studio uses the size most often asked for, which is 35×45 mm (1.38×1.77 in)[1].