German Reiseausweis für Ausländer Photo Requirements

The German Electronic Travel Document for Foreigners, Refugees, and Stateless Persons (Elektronischer Reiseausweis für Ausländer, Flüchtlinge und Staatenlose) 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 Bundesverwaltungsamt and BAMF have very specific requirements for Reiseausweis 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 Outdated Photos: Photos older than 6 months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

• Travel Document Types: Requirements apply to all types of Reiseausweis (for foreigners, refugees, stateless persons)
• Biometric Requirements: Photos must meet ICAO standards for travel documents
• International Travel: Valid for travel within Schengen area and international destinations
• Family Applications: Separate photos required for each family member

Photo Submission Process

For Reiseausweis 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 travel documents

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