Why CropPass can't make this photo
CropPass works on a photo you took yourself, inside your browser. The passport office in Germany now accepts only a photo that reaches it digitally from a certified photographer, through a secure cloud, or one taken at the office itself. A self-made file or print has no way into that system, so CropPass does not offer this document.
What to do instead
- Go to a certified photographer. A certified photo studio takes the photo and sends it to the passport office through the secure cloud, ready for your appointment.
- Or have it taken at the passport office. You can have the photo taken at the passport office as part of your application, instead of bringing one.
- Applying at a German mission abroad? German embassies and consulates may still accept 45×35 mm paper photos until they have their own capture devices. Ask your mission first; if it accepts prints, the standard Germany photo makes one. Standard Germany photo (35×45 mm) →
- Need a Schengen visa photo instead? Visa photos are not covered by this rule. A Schengen visa still takes a printed 35×45 mm photo, which CropPass can make. Schengen visa photo →
What the photo must look like
The photographer or the office takes care of this, but these are the rules it follows:
| Size | 35×45 mm |
|---|---|
| Format | Taken digitally by a certified photographer or at the passport office |
| Head height | 70–80% of the photo height (32–36 mm), chin to crown |
| Background | Set by the photographer or the passport office |
| Digital editing | Not allowed |
Last verified 12 October 2026 against the source: personalausweisportal.de ↗
Questions and answers
Can I still use a printed photo for a German passport?
Not when you apply in Germany. Since 1 May 2025, the office accepts only a photo sent digitally by a certified photographer or one taken on site. German missions abroad may still accept 45×35 mm paper photos until they have their own capture devices.
Does the rule cover the Personalausweis too?
Yes. It applies to German passports (Reisepass) and ID cards (Personalausweis) applied for in Germany.
What is the legal basis?
Section 6(2) of the German Passport Act (PassG). The ID card portal, personalausweisportal.de, explains the change.
Can CropPass help with anything for Germany?
Yes: Schengen visa photos, and paper photos for missions abroad that still accept them. Both are 35×45 mm prints you can make here.