German Aufenthaltstitel Photo Requirements

The German Electronic Residence Permit (Elektronischer Aufenthaltstitel/eAT) application requires photographs that meet specific Federal Office of Administration (Bundesverwaltungsamt) and Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) standards. Our AI tool helps you create perfectly compliant photos with ease.

Key Requirements

• Size: 3.5 × 4.5 cm (1.38 × 1.77 inches)
• Head Size: Face should fill 70-80% of the photo height
• Head Position: Full frontal view, directly facing camera
• Background: Light gray background (#D3D3D3)
• Print Quality: High resolution, sharp focus, color photos only
• Expression: Neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open
• Recency: Taken within the last 6 months

Technical Specifications

The BAMF and Bundesverwaltungsamt have very specific requirements for Aufenthaltstitel photos:

• Image Quality: Sharp, clear, high-resolution, no digital alterations
• Lighting: Even lighting with no shadows, glare, or red-eye
• Color: Full color photos only, natural skin tones
• Background: Light gray background, completely uniform
• Head Coverage: No head coverings except for religious purposes
• Facial Expression: Neutral expression, mouth closed, both eyes open
• Attire: Any clothing except uniforms, both shoulders visible
• Accessories: No sunglasses, tinted glasses, or distracting items

Common Reasons for Rejection

1. Incorrect Dimensions: Not exactly 3.5 × 4.5 cm
2. Wrong Background: Not light gray or colored background
3. Poor Quality: Blurry, pixelated, or low resolution
4. Shadows/Glare: Visible shadows, glare, or red-eye
5. Outdated Photos: Photos older than 6 months
6. Head Coverings: Wearing hats, caps, or sunglasses
7. Expression Issues: Eyes closed, mouth open, or unnatural expression
8. Attire Problems: Wearing uniforms or inappropriate clothing
9. Digital Alterations: Any signs of photo manipulation
10. Wrong Head Size: Face too small or too large in frame

Special Considerations

• Residence Permit Types: Requirements apply to all types of Aufenthaltstitel (job seeker, student, work, family reunification, etc.)
• Biometric Requirements: Photos must meet EU standards for electronic residence permits
• Multiple Applications: Different requirements may apply for extensions vs. initial applications
• Family Applications: Separate photos required for each family member

Photo Submission Process

For Aufenthaltstitel applications:

• Photos are typically taken at your local Ausländerbehörde (Foreigners’ Office)
• Biometric photos are captured digitally at the foreigners’ office
• Two identical photos are usually required for initial applications
• Photos must be printed on high-quality photo paper
• Digital biometric capture is mandatory for electronic residence permits

Creating a proper Aufenthaltstitel photo is crucial for your residence permit application. Our tool ensures your photo meets all BAMF and Bundesverwaltungsamt requirements, helping you avoid common mistakes that lead to rejection.