Official requirements
| Photo size | 35 × 45 mm |
|---|---|
| Digital size | 413 × 531 px |
| Head height | 64%–76% of photo height (chin to top of hair) |
| Background | Plain light grey |
| Glasses | Allowed if eyes are clearly visible, no glare or tint |
| Submission | Printed photo |
Rules to follow
- Print size is 45 mm high by 35 mm wide, in colour on plain white photo paper with no border.
- Your head from crown to chin is 29–34 mm tall.
- Use a plain cream or light grey background — not bright white.
- Face forward with a plain expression, mouth closed and eyes open.
- Avoid glasses unless you need them; never sunglasses or tinted lenses.
- If you wear glasses, frames, glare and shadow must not cover your eyes.
- No head covering unless for religious or medical reasons.
- The photo must have been taken within the last month.
- Paper applications need two identical prints.
Why UK Passport photos get rejected
- Photo older than one month.
- Shadows on the face or behind you.
- Hair falling across the eyes.
- Head outside the 29–34 mm range.
- Glare on glasses hiding the eyes.
Our checks catch these before you download — and you see the result before you pay.
Questions
Can I use this photo for an online UK passport application?
Online applications use a digital photo you upload uncropped (at least 600 × 750 px, 50 KB–10 MB) or a code from a photo shop. HM Passport Office crops it for you, so our printed layout is for paper forms.
Why does a UK passport photo have to be so recent?
GOV.UK requires the photo to have been taken in the last month, much stricter than the six months many countries allow. Take it shortly before you post the form.
Who needs to countersign UK passport photos?
Some paper applications, such as a first adult passport, need a countersignatory to sign the back of one photo. GOV.UK’s countersigning page explains who qualifies.
What background is best for a UK passport photo?
Plain cream or light grey, with a clear contrast to your face and hair and no shadows behind you. We render a light grey that fits the printed-photo rule.
Sources: GOV.UK – Printed passport photos · GOV.UK – Digital passport photos. PhotoForUSA is an independent service, not affiliated with any government. Rules change — always check the official source before you apply.