Biometric Passport Photo: All Requirements for Austria 2026

Whether it’s a passport, ID card or driver’s license — strict biometric requirements apply to passport photos in Austria. Here you’ll find all official specifications at a glance.

Official Dimensions and Format

Face and Expression

The face must occupy 70–80% of the image height. Specifically:

• Head centered in the image
• Eyes open and clearly visible
• Neutral facial expression — no smiling or frowning
• Mouth closed
• Looking directly into the camera
• Head straight — not tilted or turned

Background

• Color: White or very light grey
• Uniform: No patterns, objects or shadows
• Contrast: Clear contrast between face and background

Tip: With PassphotoLabs, you don’t need a white background. Our AI automatically removes any background and replaces it with the required white.

Lighting

• Even illumination of the face
• No shadows on the face or background
• No red-eye effect
• Natural skin tones — no over- or underexposure

Glasses

Since the 2020 regulation change in Austria:

• Glasses are generally permitted
• No reflections on the lenses
• No tinted lenses or sunglasses
• Frames must not cover the eyes
• No shadows from the frame

Headwear

• Generally not permitted
• Exception: Religious or medical reasons
• The face must be fully visible from hairline to chin

Which Documents Require These Photos?

These biometric requirements apply in Austria for:

1. Passport (valid for 10 years)
2. ID card (valid for 10 years)
3. Driver’s license (card format)
4. e-card (social insurance chip card)
5. Residence permits and visas

Photo Validity Period

• Passport photos must be no more than 6 months old
• A new photo is required if your appearance has changed significantly
• Children under 2: special regulations (eyes must be open, head as straight as possible)

How PassphotoLabs Checks Requirements

Our AI automatically checks all the criteria listed above:

1. Face size and position
2. Eye distance and position
3. Head posture and tilt
4. Background color and uniformity
5. Lighting and shadows
6. Image format and resolution

If a criterion isn’t met, you’ll receive a detailed hint on what to adjust.

Conclusion

The biometric requirements for passport photos in Austria are strict, but with PassphotoLabs you don’t have to worry about them. Our AI knows all the specifications and ensures your photo meets every criterion — guaranteed.

Create your biometric passport photo now →