New Digital Biometric Passport Photo Rules at Berlin Immigration Office for Residence permit

In 2026 a new regulation has changed how biometric passport photos are handled for residence permits and travel documents in Berlin. This update, aimed at improving security for identity document issuance, affects processes at the Landesamt für Einwanderung (LEA). As HR professionals managing employee documentation, here’s what you need to know to ensure compliance for your workforce.

What Is a Biometric Photo for a German Visa or Residence Permit?

A biometric photo is a passport-standard photo that meets Germany's technical specification for identity documents used for visas, residence permits, and travel documents nationwide.

• National standard: All German biometric photos must be 35mm × 45mm with a neutral expression, closed mouth, and a plain light background.
• Digital submission in Berlin: For electronic residence permits, Berlin's LEA now requires the photo to reach them digitally either via a certified studio's QR code or an on-site terminal, not a loose print.
• Where it differs by document: Visa applications at consulates may still accept printed biometric photos; the QR-code rule is specific to LEA-processed residence documents.
• Who it applies to: Most employees applying for or renewing an electronic residence permit through Berlin's LEA fall under the new digital process.

Key Changes for Biometric Photos

Under the new law, biometric photos for electronic residence permits and travel documents must be taken either:

• At government offices during an appointment, or
• At certified photo studios with secure digital transmission to authorities via a high-security cloud.

How Does the Biometric Photo QR Code Process Work in Berlin?

Certified studios now transmit your biometric photo to the LEA digitally you bring a QR code to your appointment, not a print.

• Get the photo taken: Visit a certified studio or photo kiosk (e.g. at a dm store or Bürgeramt) that supports digital transmission.
• Receive a QR code: The studio uploads your photo to a secure high-security cloud and issues you a QR code linked to it.
• Bring the QR code to your LEA appointment: Present the QR code instead of a printed photo  the LEA downloads the image directly from the secure system.
• Standards still apply: The photo must meet biometric specs 35mm × 45mm, neutral expression, light background, no shadows.

Prefer not to visit a studio? The self-service terminals at the LEA's Keplerstraße office are covered in the section below.

Self-Service Photo Terminals at LEA

• The LEA has introduced self-service photo terminals at its Keplerstraße location starting May 1, 2025. These terminals allow applicants to take a digital biometric photo on-site for a fee of €6 (payable in cash with coins or €5 notes, no card payments).
• The terminals are automated, adjust camera height, take multiple photos, and allow applicants to select one, which is then uploaded to the LEA’s system. Applicants may still need to provide personal details (e.g., birthdate) for processing.

What Are the German Biometric Photo Size Requirements?

German biometric photos follow one fixed specification across visa and residence permit applications.

Which Permits Are Exempt From the Digital Photo Rules?

Berlin's digital biometric photo requirement does not apply to every permit type three categories may still follow traditional printed-photo submission.

• Ukrainian refugee residence permits: Residence permits issued to Ukrainian refugees are exempt from the new digital submission process.
• Toleration permits (Duldung): Holders of a Duldung a temporary suspension of deportation are not covered by the QR-code requirement.
• Temporary residence authorizations (Aufenthaltsgestattung): Certificates confirming permission to remain while an asylum decision is pending fall outside the new rules.
• What this means for these cases: These permits may allow printed photo submission, but the exact protocol can vary HR should confirm the current requirement per case.

Because exemption handling changes, verify the specifics for these permit types on the LEA's official website before the appointment.

Important Notes for Appointments After May 1, 2025:

• During the initial rollout phase, technical irregularities with the self-service terminals may occur.
• Visitors are strongly advised to bring a current biometric passport photo to ensure smooth processing.‍

Action Steps for HR

1. Inform Employees: Share details about the new photo rules and exceptions, especially for those with upcoming LEA appointments.
2. Advise on Photos: Recommend bringing a biometric photo to avoid delays, even if using the self-service terminals.
3. Monitor Updates: Regularly visit the LEA website to stay updated on terminal functionality and other changes.
4. Budget for Costs: Note the €6 fee for on-site photos when planning employee support for documentation.

By taking these steps, HR can help employees navigate the new system with confidence, ensuring a seamless experience at the LEA.

Disclaimer: Immigration rules change quite frequently; please verify with official sources or contact us for the latest info before making any decisions.