Germany Settlement Permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis) Photo 2026
The Niederlassungserlaubnis is Germany's permanent residence title, issued as an electronic residence document (elektronischer Aufenthaltstitel, eAT) — a credit-card-format card with a biometric photo and fingerprints stored on a chip. It requires a biometric photo of 35×45 mm: frontal view, neutral expression, closed mouth, head 32–36 mm chin-to-crown, plain light background. Since 1 May 2025 the photo must be submitted digitally.
Key details
- The eAT card stores a biometric photo and fingerprints on a chip, so the photo must meet the full biometric standard.
- Since 1 May 2025, photos for residence documents may only be submitted digitally — paper photos are no longer accepted by the immigration office (Ausländerbehörde).
- You apply at your local immigration authority; the digital photo can come from a certified studio or a registered terminal.
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
What photo does the settlement permit need? +
Can I still hand in a paper photo? +
Is the settlement permit a chip card? +
Take a photo that passes — automatically.
Pick your country, snap, and we check every rule before you save — in your browser or in the app.