UK Passport & Visa Photo Requirements

Hello! Planning to get your UK passport or visa? Let me walk you through the photo requirements. The UK's rules might seem particular, but I'll break everything down into simple, easy-to-follow steps. Ready to get started?

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Essential UK Visa and Passport Photo Requirements

Example of a correct UK passport photo

Correct UK passport photo

The UK has quite specific requirements for passport and visa photos, but don't worry - we'll make it simple! The most important thing to remember is that your photo needs to be recent (taken within the last month) and look just like you.

For UK passports and visas, you'll need two identical colour photos. They must be printed on high-quality photo paper and meet all the official requirements. Digital photos are accepted for some online applications, but they need to meet the same standards.

Taken in the last month
Two identical photos

Photo Measurements

Here's everything you need to know about UK passport photo sizes:

Your photos must be 45mm high x 35mm wide (the standard UK passport size)
Your face should take up 29-34mm from chin to crown (between 65% and 75% of the photo's height)
Your face must be centred and looking straight at the camera

🤔 Pro Tip: When getting your photo taken professionally, just mention it's for a UK passport or visa. They'll know exactly what size to make it!

Visual guide showing UK passport photo measurements

UK photo size guide

Background Requirements - Keep It Simple

Example of correct light grey or cream background

✓ Perfect background

The UK is quite particular about photo backgrounds:

Background must be light grey or cream (plain white isn't recommended)

No patterns, shadows, or other objects should be visible

The background should have good contrast with your face and hair

⚠️ Important: Unlike many other countries, the UK specifically recommends against using a pure white background as it can be too bright and wash out facial features.

How You Should Look in Your Photo

Example of correct pose and expression for UK passport

Correct pose and expression

DO's

Keep a neutral expression - no smiling (UK rules are strict about this!)

Keep your mouth closed and look straight at the camera

Ensure both edges of your face are clearly visible

DON'Ts

No head coverings (except for religious or medical reasons)

No sunglasses or tinted glasses (normal glasses are fine if they don't cover your eyes)

No hair across your eyes or face

Photo Quality Requirements

Example of photo quality requirements

Quality requirements example

Must be professionally printed on high-quality, glossy photo paper

Sharp focus and clear, showing natural skin tones

Well-lit with no harsh shadows or flash reflections

No creases, marks, or damage of any kind

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