✔ Correct size
Printed photos must be 45mm × 35mm. Online uploads follow GOV.UK digital framing rules.
Passport photo guide
Passport Photo Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers to the UK passport photo questions that cause the most delays — size, background, glasses, baby photos, digital uploads and common rejection reasons.
Quick answers
✔ Digital photo accepted
Online applications accept compliant digital uploads or booth codes linked to a digital image.
✔ Glasses rules
Glasses are usually not allowed unless you have an accepted medical reason and no glare.
✔ Baby passport photos
Babies under one do not need to look at the camera and may have their eyes closed.
✔ Background colour
Use a plain light background such as cream, light grey or white with no shadows.
Frequently asked questions
Expand any question for a concise answer. Always confirm the latest official wording on GOV.UK passport photo guidance.
No. Keep a plain, neutral expression with your mouth closed and your eyes open and clearly visible.
Usually no. UK passport photo rules generally do not allow glasses unless you have a medical need confirmed by a doctor or optician. There must be no glare, and your eyes must remain fully visible.
Yes, if you follow the official framing, lighting, background and expression rules. Use a compliant checker or professional service if you are unsure — a rejected photo can delay your application.
Yes. Stand against a plain light wall, use even lighting, keep the camera at eye level, and check the result against current GOV.UK guidance before uploading or printing.
Use a plain light-coloured background such as cream, light grey or white with no pattern, texture, shadows or other people visible behind you.
Yes for children under one. They do not need to look directly at the camera. Keep a plain light background and make sure no other person appears in the photo.
No everyday hats or fashion headwear. Religious or medical head coverings are allowed if worn daily and your full face remains clearly visible.
Only if it still meets current rules and still looks exactly like you. In practice it is safer to take a new photo, especially if your appearance has changed or the previous photo is more than a month old.
Do not edit the photo in a way that changes your appearance. Filters, beauty tools, reshaping or changing skin tone can lead to rejection. Cropping or rotating to meet framing rules is fine.
Helpful guidance
Digital and printed photos
Online applications usually need a digital upload or booth code. Paper applications need printed 45mm × 35mm photos on good-quality photo paper. In both cases the appearance rules are the same: recent likeness, plain background, neutral expression, no shadows or filters.
How to avoid rejection
Most delays come from avoidable issues: shadows, glasses glare, smiling, busy backgrounds, hair covering the face, blur, or photos that are too old. Check the crop carefully before you submit.
Children and babies
Children should usually face the camera with a plain expression. Babies under one may have closed eyes and do not need to look at the camera. Remove toys, dummies and hats unless an allowed religious or medical covering applies.
Related links
Passport Validity Checker
Check issue-date and expiry rules for common European destinations.
UK Passport Check
A practical checklist of what to review before you travel.
Current Waiting Times
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