Germany Health Insurance Card (eGK) Photo Requirements 2026
The elektronische Gesundheitskarte (eGK) is the health insurance card issued by your statutory health insurer (Krankenkasse) and carries your photo from age 15. The photo follows the common passport format of 35×45 mm, but — unlike a passport or ID card — it does not have to meet the strict biometric standard; a clear frontal portrait on a plain light background is enough. You usually upload it digitally to your insurer.
Key details
- A photo is compulsory from age 15; children under 15, and insured people who cannot cooperate for health reasons, receive a card without a photo.
- Biometric requirements do not apply — a normal 35×45 mm passport photo is sufficient, and a friendly expression is generally accepted.
- Most insurers let you upload the photo online (JPG/PNG); it should be reasonably recent.
Shared rules with the country overview
These apply to every document this country issues — see the full breakdown on the country page.
Background
Plain light grey is the official requirement. Pure white is also widely accepted in practice. No patterns, no shadows behind the head.
Expression and eyes
Strictly neutral expression with mouth closed. Both eyes open, looking directly into the camera. Smiling is explicitly disallowed for biometric photos.
Glasses
Glasses are discouraged. If worn, no reflections on the lenses, no tinted lenses, and the eyes must be fully visible. Thick frames covering the eyes will be rejected.
Recency
The photo must have been taken within the last six months and must reflect your current appearance.
Frequently asked questions
Does the health insurance card photo have to be biometric? +
From what age is a photo required? +
How do I submit the photo? +
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