December 8, 2025, 8:55 am | Read time: 3 minutes
When you last applied for a new ID document, you might have submitted a physical biometric photo. That practice is now a thing of the past: Since May 1, passport photos for a new ID card or passport must be submitted digitally. They are sent directly to a government server. TECHBOOK explains the new permissible procedure.
The introduction of digital passport photos has been planned for some time. As of May 1, local citizen offices nationwide can no longer accept printed photos. Anyone needing a new ID card or passport must submit the required photos digitally to the relevant authority. But where can you take such photos? And why this change?
Overview
Digital Passport Photo for ID Documents–Why?
More information on this “significant innovation in the German passport and ID system” can be found on the website of the Federal Ministry of the Interior and Community (BMI). The obligation to digitally submit passport photos applies to various ID documents, from those mentioned to electronic residence permits and special transport permits for foreigners, refugees, and stateless persons. The authority cites improved photo quality and fraud prevention as reasons. Additionally, the new process is intended to simplify the application process.
There are no new requirements for the photos themselves. They must still be biometric, meaning taken frontally, with eyes directly facing the camera, against a light background without shadows on the face or reflections on eyeglasses. However, they must be submitted digitally. Not just any photo booth can necessarily provide this service.
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Where to Get a Digital Passport Photo and What It Costs
A digital biometric passport photo can be obtained from a “registered photo service provider,” explains the BMI. This can be a passport photo booth or a photographer offering digital biometric passport photos. The process is the same in both cases: The photo is taken on-site and automatically checked against biometric passport photo requirements. It is then digitally transmitted to the authority via a certified encrypted cloud. According to the BMI, the guidelines of the Federal Office for Information Security are followed. After the photo session, the customer receives a data matrix code to present when applying for their ID document. This allows the authority to retrieve and use the photo from the secure cloud.
Creating digital biometric passport photos typically costs between 10 and 20 euros at a photographer. In photo booths, prices usually range from 7 to 10 euros.
Some Citizen Offices Offer On-Site Photo Services
In some citizen offices, you can have a digital passport photo taken on-site. Different devices may be used in the offices, including both stand and table models. Often, they can also capture fingerprints and the applicant’s signature in addition to the digital passport photo. This option is often slightly cheaper, and applicants save a trip to the photographer or a photo booth. However, you should not rely on this service being available, as the offices are not required to offer it. It’s advisable to check before your visit.
How Long Are Digital Passport Photos Stored?
The BMI points out that the new passport photos are stored only for the duration of the application process and then deleted for reasons of data protection and data security.