German Passport Requirements

The German passport (Reisepass) is the primary travel document ✈️ for German citizens and enjoys worldwide recognition 🌍. It allows international travel and serves as a reliable form of identification across borders.

📝 Application Process

📍 In Germany: The passport is issued by the citizen's office (Bürgeramt) 🏢 in the applicant's registered place of residence.
📍 Abroad 🌎: German nationals can apply through German embassies and consulates 🏛️.

📌 Key Feature: The biometric passport includes a contactless electronic chip 🔒, securely storing personal data, a digital photograph, and fingerprints.

✅ Steps to Acquire

1️⃣ Appear in person at the relevant issuing authority 🏢 (appointment recommended 📅)
2️⃣ Bring two identical, recent biometric passport photos 📸
3️⃣ Present required documents 📑:

• 📝 Completed application form
• 📜 Birth certificate stating the exact place of birth
• 💍 Marriage certificate, divorce decree, or death certificate of spouse (if applicable)
• 🆔 Previous passport (if any)
• 🇩🇪 Proof of German citizenship
  4️⃣ Provide biometric data (fingerprints ✋)
  5️⃣ Pay the passport fee 💳

📷 Photo Requirements

🔍 General Photo Guidelines

✅ Two identical, recent, high-quality biometric passport photos 📸
✅ Size: 45 mm height × 35 mm width 📏
✅ Face must be clearly visible and evenly illuminated 💡
✅ Head height: approximately 34.5 mm from chin to hairline
✅ Face should occupy 70-80% of the photo
✅ Color photos with natural skin and hair tones 🎨
✅ Maximum photo age: 6 months prior to application ⏳

🚫 Restrictions

⛔ Neutral facial expression 😐 (no smiling, frowning, or exaggerated expressions)
⛔ Eyes must be clearly open 👀 and looking directly at the camera
⛔ No hats or head coverings, except for religious reasons 🧕
⛔ Religious head coverings: Face must be fully visible from chin to forehead
⛔ Glasses are generally not allowed, except for medical reasons with certification 👓

📤 Printing & Submission Guidelines

🖨️ Printed on high-quality photographic paper 📜
🔍 Minimum resolution: 600 DPI (dots per inch)
✏️ No editing or retouching that alters natural appearance

🔹 The German passport is not only a travel document 🛂, but also a recognized form of official identification.
🔹 The strict biometric standards 📊 ensure secure identification and help prevent identity theft 🔐.
🔹 Fingerprint collection is mandatory from age 6, adding an extra layer of security against fraud.