DE Germany rail card 35x45 mm Processing Times and Tips - Latest Updates
Whether you’re planning daily commutes between Berlin and Potsdam or a weekend escape through the Bavarian Alps, securing your Deutsche Bahn RailCard hinges on one simple yet crucial detail: a flawless 35 × 45 mm ID photo that meets Germany’s exacting standards. In this guide, you’ll discover the typical processing timeline—from digital upload and photo verification to card printing and postal delivery—plus proven tips to accelerate every step. Learn how to capture a passport-style headshot that never gets flagged, choose the fastest submission method, and avoid common pitfalls that can add weeks to your wait. Say goodbye to delays and hello to your next rail adventure on time and under budget!
Requirements
- Photo Size: exactly 35 mm wide × 45 mm high with a narrow white border (2–5 mm) on all sides
- Head Dimensions & Position: head height (chin to crown) must be 32–36 mm, centered horizontally, with top of hairline 3–5 mm below upper edge
- Background: uniform light grey or white, matte finish, no shadows, patterns or objects visible
- Facial Expression & Pose: neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open and clearly visible, head straight and facing camera
- Lighting & Exposure: even natural or studio lighting, no red-eye, reflections or harsh shadows on face or background
- Glasses & Headwear: no tinted lenses or heavy frames; head coverings only for documented religious reasons and must not obscure facial features
- Image Quality & Print: sharp, high-resolution color image (≥ 600 dpi) printed on professional photo paper, no creases or marks, corners square
- Digital Submission Format: JPEG or PNG, 300 dpi, color profile sRGB, file size ≤ 10 MB, no compression artifacts
- Standard Processing Time: allow 3–4 weeks from submission for Deutsche Bahn to issue your Rail Card
- Expedited Processing Option: available at select service centers for an additional fee, reduces turnaround to 1–2 weeks
- Pro Tips for Success:
- verify final print dimensions with a passport-photo template before cutting
- avoid DIY photos on dark walls—use a professional studio or certified photo booth
- retain a digital master file for easy reorders or online uploads
Step-by-Step Process
Content about DE Germany rail card 35x45 mm Processing Times and Tips - process
Tips and Best Practices
Content about DE Germany rail card 35x45 mm Processing Times and Tips - tips
Conclusion
In summary, ensuring your 35 × 45 mm DE German rail card photo meets all specifications and submission guidelines will minimize delays and maximize approval chances.
Key Points:
- Photo dimensions: exactly 35 × 45 mm with head height 32–36 mm and top margin 3–5 mm
- Image quality: high resolution (300 dpi+), neutral background, natural skin tones, no shadows or reflections
- Facial expression: neutral, mouth closed, eyes open and clearly visible, no head tilt
- Accessories: no hats, head coverings (unless for religious reasons), or tinted glasses; clear prescription glasses allowed without glare
- File format & size: JPEG or PNG, uncompressed, 200–500 KB, no heavy editing or filters
- Submission timing: standard processing 4–6 weeks from receipt, expedited service (if available) 1–2 weeks for an extra fee
- Application tips: double-check all personal details, use a professional photo service or VisaPics-approved studio, upload immediately upon photo capture
Next Steps:
- Review photo against all specifications before submission
- Choose standard or expedited processing based on your travel timeline
- Submit your complete application package and track via the official portal
By following these guidelines, you’ll streamline your rail card issuance and stay on track for your Germany travels.
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