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Biometrics in Electronic Identity Documents

Facial Images

As in the past, photographs for electronic identity documents must be submitted on photographic paper. There are also various other specifications for these photographs. The image must be evenly lit, for instance, and must not contain any shadows.

For the exact requirements, please refer to these examples. If you plan to have your photograph taken by a professional, be sure to mention that you need a biometric photograph for an electronic identity document. Many photo booths also offer guidance on taking a biometric photograph.

The officials at passport-issuing authorities can check whether a photograph corresponds to the applicable specifications using a passport photograph template and/or a software program.