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USA vs Germany passport photo: 51 × 51 mm vs 35 × 45 mm
USA: 51 × 51 mm. Germany: 35 × 45 mm. Head height, background, glasses and file rules for the passport photo, side by side from each issuing authority.
Can you use the same photo for both?
No — the print sizes differ. USA requires 51 × 51 mm, while Germany requires 35 × 45 mm, so one print cannot satisfy both specifications. You will need a separate photo set for each document.
In short
USA requires 51 × 51 mm while Germany requires 35 × 45 mm. The two specifications are NOT interchangeable — a photo accepted for one will 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 | USA | Germany |
|---|---|---|
| Photo size≠ differs | 51 × 51 mm | 35 × 45 mm |
| Digital photo (px) | 600 × 600 px | The authority does not publish this detail |
| Head height≠ differs | 49–69% | 71–80% (32–36 mm) |
| Background | White or off-white background. | Plain light background. |
| Glasses | Glasses prohibited, except for rare documented medical exceptions. | Eyes must be fully visible; no tinting or reflections. |
| Expression | Neutral expression or slight natural smile; both eyes open. | 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 | Strictly full face, head centred. | Full face, head centred, no tilt or rotation. |
| Lighting / shadows | Shadows, overexposure, and reflections not permitted. | No shadows or uneven lighting. |
| Attire | Ordinary everyday clothing; uniforms and uniform-like clothing not permitted. | Neutral clothing; face and shoulder line must be distinguishable from the background. |
| Authority | U.S. Department of State | Federal Foreign Office of Germany |
| Last verified | 21 May 2026 | 21 May 2026 |
Read each rule set in full
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the same photo for USA and Germany?
No — the print sizes differ. USA requires 51 × 51 mm, while Germany requires 35 × 45 mm, so one print cannot satisfy both specifications. You will need a separate photo set for each document.
Which photo is larger — USA or Germany?
USA uses the larger photo: 51 × 51 mm versus 35 × 45 mm for Germany.
What background colour do USA and Germany require?
USA requires: White or off-white. Germany requires: Plain light. A plain white background satisfies both.