E-passport image: everything you need to know

What is an e-passport image?

An e-passport photo is a digital, biometric passport photo that no longer needs to be printed out or uploaded. It is transmitted directly and securely to the relevant authority.

Why do I need an e-passport photo?

From 1 May 2025, you will need it for:
✔ ID card
✔ Passport
✔ eAT (electronic residence permit)
✔ Other official documents

You can still apply for driving licenses with printed passport photos. The road traffic offices have not yet switched to the
e-passport photo.

Why can I no longer use a printed passport photo?

The new regulations are intended to prevent manipulation and increase security. A photo that you bring with you will no longer be accepted.

How do I get the QR code?

After your passport photo has been taken, you will receive an individual QR code from us, which you present when you apply for your ID card. Strangely enough, it is a requirement that we have to give you a printed copy of the code.

How long does it take?

The entire procedure only takes 5-10 minutes – simple, quick and stress-free!

Is retouching allowed and included in the price?

Light digital retouching of the skin is permitted and, if desired, included in the price. We remove minor skin blemishes and redness free of charge.
Deformation of the face and removal of features such as wrinkles and pigment spots is not permitted.

How old can passport photos be?

Passport photos must not be older than six months if you want to use them to apply for an ID document in Germany. For example, authorities use passport photos that you have already submitted to an authority.

What is the legal status of biometric passport photos
?

A lot is happening at the moment when it comes to the legal aspects of biometric passport photos.

Passport photos will soon have to be sent digitally by licensed photographers to the Citizens’ Registration Office.
This is intended to prevent so-called morphing, i.e. the digital blending of two facial images by computer.

The regulation is due to come into force in mid-2021.
However, there is a transitional period until 2025 because many citizens’ bureaus and offices do not yet have the technical capabilities to meet the requirements.

As soon as we have more information, you will find it here.

Sources:
https://www.bmi.bund.de/SharedDocs/kurzmeldungen/Webs/PA/DE/2020/Neue_Vorgaben_Pass_Personalausweis.html#:~:text=Um%20das%20Morphing%20auszuschlie%C3%9Fen%2C%20werden,gleich%20auf%20seine%20Biometrietauglichkeit%20gepr%C3%BCft.