From May 2025, new regulations for applying for identity documents such as passports, ID cards and electronic residence permits will come into force. A key component of these changes is the mandatory use of digital photographs. This regulation is intended to increase the security of official documents by preventing manipulation through so-called morphing techniques.
Only photographs that have been digitally captured and taken by certified photographers may be used when applying. Alternatively, citizens can use the photo terminals available in the citizens' offices of the City of Leipzig. Printed or self-created photos will no longer be accepted.
The basis for these changes is a legislative amendment from 2020 that promotes the use of digital passport photos. This measure is intended to increase protection against identity fraud and ensure that the photos taken meet the biometric requirements. You can find out which photographers are authorized in Leipzig at www.leipzig.de/personalausweis .
The photos are transferred directly to the relevant authorities via a secure cloud service, which further optimizes security. In the Leipzig Citizens' Offices and in the Ordnungsamt, self-service terminals are available for a fee where passport photos can be taken directly.
Driving licenses are an exception to this rule. While photo terminals can also be used for EU driving licenses, an analogue photo is still required for international driving licenses.
Further information is available to citizens on the website www.leipzig.de/buergerbuero and on the topic portal www.leipzig.de/aufenthalt as well as via the citizens' hotline on (0341) 115.
