At the time, they were not fully functioning but they are now, just in time for the new rule regarding digital e-passport photos-which goes into effect this Wednesday, 1st May. These changes will affect all photo submissions in Germany—not just those for the residency permit application.

Starting May 1, 2025, Germany administrative offices will no longer accept printed passport photos for official documents like passports, national ID cards, or residence permits.

Instead, photos must be submitted digitally — either directly at the Bürgeramt (Citizen’s Office) or uploaded securely by a certified photographer.

Key Points for Foreigners:

• No more paper photos: You can’t just bring a printed photo anymore for German IDs/passports.
• Digital submission: The photo must be digitally transmitted directly to the government system.
• Where to get your photos taken:
  • At the Bürgeramt: Some offices will have photo booths where they take your photo on-site.
  • At a certified photographer: The photographer will send your photo via a secure “Upload Portal” (called “hoheitliche Lichtbilder” — meaning official government-use photos).
  • Drug Stores like DM will continue to offer their in-store passport photos services and customers will also receive a QR-Code (this is called a Data-Matrix Code on their website) as well as printed passport photos.
• How far in advance can I have my photo taken? You will definitely need to do your homework here and call ahead or arrive to the service center in advance.
  • The photobooth here in Bremen notes that the photos will be available for 96 hrs.
  • DM notes the photos would available on their e-cloud for 6 months.
• How do I know if my local authority has a photo terminal?
  • Call ahead, ask your local consultant or visit your local immigration office’s website.
  • Depending on the technical equipment of the respective office, paper passport photos may still be accepted as an exception until 31.7.2025.
  • Some cities like Berlin are recommending that applicants continue to bring a current biometric passport photo as this new law comes in effect to avoid challenges during the appointments.
• Security: The goal is to prevent photo tampering or deepfakes.
• Cost: It may cost a little more — photographers might charge extra for the secure upload service.
• Applies to:
  • German citizens
  • Residents (including foreigners applying for residence permits, visas, etc.)
  • Anyone applying for a German ID or passport
• Practical Tip:
  ✅ Before visiting the Bürgeramt, check if:
  Your Bürgeramt takes photos on-site (then you don’t need to bring anything, but be sure to give yourself ample time before your appointment). Some smaller locations may be slower to phase in this technology now through 01.08.
  Or if you need to go to a certified photographer first and send the photo to the Bürgeramt. You may need to book an appointment in advance.
  
  Keep in mind, passport Standards will remain the same:
  
      Format: 3.5 cm x 4.5 cm each
      The image must be sharp, high-contrast and evenly lit
      The photo must be of good quality and have natural skin tones
      Background: monochrome, bright and without pattern
      The face must be centered in the picture and aligned straight
      Eyes must be open, looking towards the camera
      A neutral facial expression and closed mouth are mandatory – you can even smile a little