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Germany vs Italy visa photo: both 35 × 45 mm
Germany and Italy both ask for 35 × 45 mm. Head height, background, glasses and file rules for the visa photo, side by side from each issuing authority.
Can you use the same photo for both?
Germany and Italy publish the same print size (35 × 45 mm), and a plain white background satisfies both rules (Germany: Plain light; Italy: Plain, one colour). One photo session can usually cover both; head-height and the digital-upload rules are on each linked page.
In short
Germany and Italy use the same photo dimensions for this document. The other specifications (head-height, background, glasses) may still differ — see below.
Specification table
Every value in this table is taken from the official publications of the two issuing authorities. Open either country page for the full rule set, the printable layout and the source links.
| Attribute | Germany | Italy |
|---|---|---|
| Photo size= same | 35 × 45 mm | 35 × 45 mm |
| Head height≠ differs | 71–80% (32–36 mm) | 70–80% |
| Background | Plain light background. | Even plain background without shadows. |
| Glasses | Eyes must be fully visible. | Eyes must be fully visible without strong reflections. |
| Expression | Neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open. | Neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open. |
| Head covering | Religious reasons only; must not cover the facial oval. | The authority does not publish this detail |
| Pose | Full face, no tilt or rotation. | Full face, no noticeable tilt; face turned towards the lens. |
| Lighting / shadows | No shadows or reflections. | No harsh shadows or overexposure. |
| Attire | Neutral clothing. | Keep the original clothing and a visible shoulder line. |
| Authority | Federal Foreign Office of Germany | Ministero degli Affari Esteri e della Cooperazione Internazionale |
| Last verified | 17 May 2026 | 25 Sep 2026 |
Read each rule set in full
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the same photo for Germany and Italy?
Germany and Italy publish the same print size (35 × 45 mm), and a plain white background satisfies both rules (Germany: Plain light; Italy: Plain, one colour). One photo session can usually cover both; head-height and the digital-upload rules are on each linked page.
Which photo is larger — Germany or Italy?
Neither — both countries use the same 35 × 45 mm photo for this document.
What background colour do Germany and Italy require?
Germany requires: Plain light. Italy requires: Plain, one colour. A plain white background satisfies both.