Is a German residence permit photo the same as a Schengen visa photo?

Yes — since Germany is a Schengen member, both visa and residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel) applications use the same core standard: 35x45mm with matching head proportions.

What photo does the Ausländerbehörde (foreigners' office) require?

A recent 35x45mm ID photo on a plain white/light-grey background, compliant with the biometric standard.

Visa Photo by Country

Germany Visa & Residence Permit Photo Requirements: What's Passbild-Verordnung?

August 22, 2026 · studyoXu

Whether you're applying for a German visa or renewing a residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel), your photo needs to meet Germany's biometric photo ordinance (Passbild-Verordnung). Since Germany is a Schengen member, this largely overlaps with the general Schengen standard.

Criterion	Rule
Size	35mm x 45mm
Head height	32–36mm
Background	Plain white or light grey
Expression	Neutral, mouth closed
Applies to	Schengen visa, national (D) visa, residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel)

The German consulate or your local Ausländerbehörde (foreigners' office) may request additional documents or photo copies. Confirm the current requirements with the relevant office before your appointment.

Visa or Residence Permit?

If you're applying for a first-entry Schengen or national (D) visa to Germany, the consulate's photo requirement applies. If you already live in Germany and are renewing your residence permit, the same biometric standard is applied by your local Ausländerbehörde.

Where to Get It Done

If you're in Kadıköy, studyoXu — right across from the Population Registry Office — shoots to the German standard. Our biometric photo service →

Elsewhere in Turkey? Our sister brand printXu ships nationwide.

Compare photo requirements for other countries: Passport & visa photo size by country →