UK Passport Photo Requirements 2026
His Majesty's Passport Office (HMPO) sets strict photo standards for UK passport applications. Here's the complete official guide for 2026.
Size Requirements
| Measurement | Value |
|---|---|
| Photo width | 35 mm |
| Photo height | 45 mm |
| Face height (chin to crown) | 29–34 mm |
| Eyes position from bottom | 29–35 mm from the bottom of the photo |
The photo must be in portrait orientation (taller than wide). This is different from the square format used by US passports.
Background Requirements
- Colour: Plain light grey or cream — not white
- Must be plain and uniform — no patterns, textures, or gradients
- No shadows on the background
- No other people or objects visible
This is one of the most misunderstood UK requirements. Many people assume white is required (as in the US), but HMPO specifies light grey or cream.
Expression and Appearance
- Expression: Neutral — mouth closed, relaxed face
- Eyes: Open, clearly visible, looking directly at the camera
- Glasses: Not allowed (since 2018)
- Head position: Straight on, no tilt or turn
- Head coverings: Only for daily religious practice; full face must be visible
- Make-up: Natural-looking make-up is acceptable; heavy face paint or theatrical make-up is not
Photo Quality Standards
- In sharp focus — no blur
- Correctly exposed — not too dark or too light
- No red-eye
- No shadows on the face
- Taken within the last month (HMPO expects photos taken specifically for this application)
- Printed on high-quality photo paper (for physical applications)
Digital Photo Requirements (Online Applications)
For online UK passport applications via GOV.UK:
| Requirement | Value |
|---|---|
| Format | JPEG (.jpg) |
| Minimum file size | 50 KB |
| Maximum file size | 10 MB |
| Minimum width | 600 pixels |
| Colour | Full colour |
| Orientation | Portrait |
The online portal will check your photo automatically and flag issues before you submit.
Printed Photo Requirements
For applications submitted by post:
- Size: exactly 35×45 mm
- Printed on standard photo paper (not regular printer paper)
- Print quality: sharp, not faded, no marks or creases
- Taken within the last month
Countersigning
You need a countersignatory if:
- This is your first adult UK passport
- Your appearance has changed significantly since your last passport
- You are renewing a child passport
A countersignatory must:
- Have known you for at least 2 years
- Hold a recognized professional position (teacher, doctor, solicitor, etc.) or be a British passport holder
- Write on the back of the photo: "I certify that this is a true likeness of [full name]"
- Sign and print their name, occupation, and contact number
Children's UK Passport Photos
Same size and composition requirements apply. Children's passports are valid for 5 years (adults 10 years). Countersigning is typically required for a child's first passport.
Common Rejection Reasons (UK)
- White background — must be light grey or cream, not white
- Glasses — not allowed
- Shadows on face or background
- Face too small — must fill 29–34 mm of the 45 mm height
- Smiling — neutral expression required
- Low print quality — blurry or faded prints
- Wrong orientation — must be portrait, not landscape or square
Using Our Tool for UK Passport Photos
Our tool supports the UK 35×45 mm format with light grey background. Select "United Kingdom" and "Passport" to get a fully compliant photo output — both a digital file for online applications and a print-ready sheet for postal submissions.