The Germany visa photo rules in plain words
German missions accept only current biometric photos, taken within the last 6 months. The format is 35x45 mm (1.38 x 1.77 in) at 300 DPI. The face height, measured from chin to top of the head ignoring the hairstyle, is 32-36 mm, which is 70-80% of the photo.
- Background: plain and light, ideally neutral grey.
- Copies: 1 printed photo, although some missions ask for two.
- Glasses: allowed, with no glare.
- Head covering: religious only, face fully visible.
- No editing and no filters.
Check the mission's own rules
The background colour is where missions differ. Some, such as the one in Bangkok, require white, and some ask for two photos. Before you print, read the instructions of the mission or visa centre that will handle your application. If you are unsure, a plain light background is the standard choice, and white is the safer pick when a mission names it.
How to take the photo at home with a phone
Stand in front of a plain, light wall, about a metre away to prevent shadows. Use daylight from a window in front of you. Ask someone to hold the phone at eye level and take the picture from a normal distance.
- Look straight at the camera with a neutral expression and a closed mouth.
- Keep both eyes open and visible.
- Do not tilt or turn your head.
- Do not use beauty filters or retouching apps.
Common reasons a Germany visa photo is rejected
- Old photo. It must be no older than 6 months.
- Wrong background shade. A white-only mission will not accept grey, and the reverse can also be a problem.
- Edited or filtered image. Any editing is forbidden.
- Face too small or too large. It must measure 32-36 mm.
- Glare on glasses. The eyes must be visible.
- Shadows on the face or wall. Lighting must be even.
When the photo is printed, hold it next to your passport or another recent picture: your face should look the same as it does in everyday life, without smoothing or colour changes that make the print look different from you. Staff compare the photo with the person at the counter or the appointment.
Printing the photo
This is a printed submission. IDPhotoly crops your photo to 35x45 mm, sets a plain background and checks the face height. Print it on photo paper at 300 DPI, cut it to the exact size and bring the number of copies your mission asks for.
The picture is processed in your browser and not uploaded. If an official authority rejects it, you can request a full refund by email within 30 days.