German Visa Photo Requirements: The Right Size & Specifications

When applying for a German visa, submitting a photograph that meets the exact requirements is crucial. A rejected photo can lead to application delays or even visa denial. Germany has strict biometric photo guidelines that align with Schengen visa standards.

This guide outlines the correct German visa photo size, specifications, and other requirements to ensure a smooth visa application process.

What are the Specific German Visa Photo Size & Dimensions?

Your German visa photo size has to adhere to the following size guidelines:

Width: 35 mm

Height: 45 mm

Face Coverage: The face should cover 70–80% of the photo, with a head height of 32–36 mm from the chin to the crown.

Background: Plain, light-coloured (preferably light grey, white, or off-white) without patterns or shadows.

Germany Visa Photo Requirements

To meet German and Schengen visa regulations, your photo must comply with the following specifications:

1. General Appearance

The photograph should be high-resolution, clear, and printed on good-quality photo paper.

The photo should be taken within the last six months to reflect your current appearance.

The facial expression must be neutral with both eyes open, mouth closed, and no exaggerated expressions.

2. Head Position & Facial Visibility

The face must be fully visible, centred, and looking straight into the camera.

No hair covering the face or obstructing the forehead, eyes, or eyebrows.

Glasses are allowed but must not cause reflections, obscure the eyes, or have tinted lenses.

Head coverings for religious reasons are permitted, but the face must be fully visible from the bottom of the chin to the forehead.

3. Lighting & Shadows

The lighting must be even and not create shadows on the face or background.

No red-eye effect from the camera flash is allowed.

The background should be plain, light-coloured, and contrast with the subject.

4. Digital & Print Quality

The photo should be printed on matte or glossy photographic paper without creases or damage.

Digital alterations (such as retouching or filters) are not allowed.

Germany Visa Passport Photo Size

As Indians hold an Indian passport, their Germany visa stamp would be added to their Indian passports, which have different size requirements. Germany visa passport photo requirements are essentially:

The photograph should be in colour and 2 inches x 2 inches (51 mm x 51 mm) in size.

The photo should be clear and have a continuous-tone quality.

The individual should have their whole face in view, looking straight ahead with a neutral look, and have both eyes open.

The photo should present a full head from the top of the hair to the bottom of the chin.

The background should be plain white.

The photograph must be taken in colored attire, such as a medium blue shirt that is not patterned/textured or pure white.

Common Reasons for Germany Visa Photo Rejection

To avoid delays in visa processing, ensure your photo does not have these common issues:

Incorrect size (not 35x45 mm).

Smiling or non-neutral expressions.

Blurry or low-resolution images.

Dark or uneven lighting.

Background with patterns or shadows.

Wearing headgear that covers facial features.

Glasses causing reflections or hiding the eyes.

Digital editing or alterations.

Final Thoughts

Submitting a photo that meets the Germany visa photo size and requirements is a crucial step in the visa application process. You can prevent unnecessary delays or rejections by following the correct specifications, ensuring a clear, high-quality image, and avoiding common mistakes. Before submission, always double-check the embassy guidelines to ensure compliance.

Make sure to get travel insurance from a leading insurer like Niva Bupa to secure your trip and account for trip cancellation due to visa rejection.