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United Kingdom vs Germany passport photo — full spec comparison
Side-by-side comparison of passport photo requirements for United Kingdom and Germany, sourced from each issuing authority.
In short
United Kingdom and Germany use the same photo dimensions for this document. The other specifications (head-height, background, glasses) may still differ — see below.
Can you use the same photo for both?
Usually not. Both documents use 35 × 45 mm, but the background requirements differ — United Kingdom: Cream or light grey; Germany: Plain light. A photo prepared for one may be rejected by the other.
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 | United Kingdom | Germany |
|---|---|---|
| Photo size | 35 × 45 mm | 35 × 45 mm |
| Digital photo (px) | 600×750 px | Not specified by the issuing authority |
| Head height | 64–76% (29–34 mm) | 71–80% (32–36 mm) |
| Background | Plain light background in cream or grey tone without patterns. | Plain light background. |
| Glasses | No reflections or tinting; remove glasses if there is a risk of reflections. | Eyes must be fully visible; no tinting or reflections. |
| Expression | Neutral expression; the applicant must be recognisable. | Neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open. |
| Head covering | Religious reasons only; must not cover the facial oval. | Religious reasons only; must not cover the facial oval. |
| Pose | Full face, filling as much of the frame as possible without cropping. | Full face, head centred, no tilt or rotation. |
| Lighting / shadows | No digital enhancements, shadows, or print artefacts. | No shadows or uneven lighting. |
| Attire | Neutral clothing without uniform or distracting accessories. | Neutral clothing; face and shoulder line must be distinguishable from the background. |
| Authority | HM Passport Office | Federal Foreign Office of Germany |
| Verification | Official — exact | Official — exact |
| Last verified | 2026-05-21 | 2026-05-21 |
Read each rule set in full
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the same photo for United Kingdom and Germany?
Usually not. Both documents use 35 × 45 mm, but the background requirements differ — United Kingdom: Cream or light grey; Germany: Plain light. A photo prepared for one may be rejected by the other.
Which photo is larger — United Kingdom or Germany?
Neither — both countries use the same 35 × 45 mm photo for this document.
What background colour do United Kingdom and Germany require?
United Kingdom requires: Cream or light grey. Germany requires: Plain light.