Germany passport photo size & rules
Germany uses the 35x45mm biometric format (biometrisches Passbild) for passports and national ID cards, equal to 413x531 pixels at 300 dpi. German rules are among the most exacting in Europe: the face must fill 70-80% of the height of the photo, with the head from chin to crown measuring roughly 32-36mm. The Bundesdruckerei and the Federal Ministry of the Interior publish a detailed photo template (Fotomustertafel) showing exactly how the face should sit within the frame.
The background should be a plain, neutral light grey that contrasts clearly with the head and hair; strong white or coloured backgrounds are discouraged. Face the camera directly with a strictly neutral expression, mouth closed and both eyes open and clearly visible, and the face must not be tilted or turned. Germany is particularly strict about glasses: reflections, tinted lenses, and thick frames covering the eyes lead to rejection, so removing glasses is recommended. Head coverings are only accepted for religious reasons and must not cast shadows or hide facial features. Since 2024, many German authorities require photos to be captured or transmitted digitally to prevent tampering.
Pixohub formats your German biometric passport photo to 413x531 pixels with the correct face proportions directly in your browser, so the image is never uploaded and stays private on your device, and the tool is free. German biometric standards and the digital submission process are updated periodically by the responsible federal authorities. Always confirm the current official requirements, including any digital-capture rules, with your local Bürgeramt or on the government's website before printing or submitting.