UK Passport Photo
35 × 45 mm (1.38 × 1.77 in) · Passport
For the best photo: a plain face, looking straight at the camera, even light with no shadows, and no glare on glasses. Stand in front of a plain light wall.
The official rules
From the government's own website, checked September 2026. Rules can change, so check the official page before you apply.
| Photo size | 35 × 45 mm (1.38 × 1.77 in) |
|---|---|
| Head size | Head, from the crown of your head to your chin, must be between 29 mm and 34 mm high. |
| Background | Printed: plain cream or light grey. Digital: plain light-coloured. |
| Expression | Plain expression, mouth closed. |
| Glasses | Do not wear glasses unless you have to. No sunglasses or tinted lenses. Frames must not cover your eyes. |
| Head coverings | None, unless for religious or medical reasons. |
| How recent | Taken in the last month. |
| Copies | 2 identical printed photos, printed to a professional standard on plain white photo paper with no border. |
| Good to know | No glasses unless you have to wear them. Neutral face, mouth closed. |
Applying online
- Online passport application: 600 × 750 px or more, 50 KB to 10 MB. Follow the upload steps on the official site, which asks for the original photo rather than a cropped one.
Common questions
What size is a uk passport photo?
35 × 45 mm (1.38 × 1.77 in). Head, from the crown of your head to your chin, must be between 29 mm and 34 mm high.
What background do I need?
Printed: plain cream or light grey. Digital: plain light-coloured.
Can I wear glasses?
Do not wear glasses unless you have to. No sunglasses or tinted lenses. Frames must not cover your eyes.
Can I smile?
Plain expression, mouth closed.
How recent must the photo be?
Taken in the last month.
Will my photo be accepted?
We can't promise that. The final decision is always made by the passport or visa office. This page follows their published rules, which we last checked in September 2026, so check the official page before you apply.