A rejected photo can genuinely delay your entire residence permit file. Here's exactly what's required, so you don't find out at the appointment.
The specification
- Quantity: 4 recent biometric photos
- Size: 5cm x 6cm (not standard passport-photo dimensions — confirm with the photo studio specifically)
- Background: Plain white or light-colored background, no patterns or shadows
- Recency: Taken within the last 6 months
- Expression: Neutral, both eyes open, mouth closed
- Head coverings: Not permitted, except for religious reasons (in which case the full face must still be clearly visible from chin to forehead)
- Glasses: Avoid if possible — some offices reject photos with glare or frames obscuring the eyes
Where to get them done
Look for a photo studio advertising "biometrik fotograf" (biometric photo) — these are common near migration offices specifically because they know the exact specification required. A phone selfie or a photo taken at home rarely meets the requirement and risks rejection at your appointment, costing you a repeat visit. See our common bureaucracy mistakes guide for other easily-avoidable delays like this one.
*Bring all 4 copies to your appointment — even if the online upload only needs one scanned copy, the in-person biometric appointment typically requires physical prints as well.*