British passport (Credit: The Independent)

Guidelines for UK Passport Photos, Both Digital and Printed

Double-check your passport’s validity before you jet off on your next adventure. If it’s time for a renewal, your new passport photo must adhere to specific guidelines to be accepted.

For online passport applications, your photo must be digital; regardless of how similar you look to your last passport photo, a new picture is required, taken within the previous month. Any deviation from the photo requirements can cause delays in your application.

UK passport photo (Credits: u.k.abroad)

For those with disabilities, assistance is available for passport photos.

Digital Photo Guidelines:

  • Without digital alterations, the photo must have clear lighting, focus, and color.
  • It needs to be at least 600 pixels wide and 750 pixels tall, between 50KB and 10MB.
  • The background should be plain and light-colored without any additional objects or people.
  • Ensure the photo contrasts clearly against the background without “red eye.”

When taking your photo:

  • Position your head, shoulders, and upper body in the frame without cropping.
  • Look straight at the camera with a closed mouth and a neutral expression.
  • Your eyes should be fully visible, not obscured by hair.
  • Head coverings should only be worn for religious or medical reasons, without covering the face.
  • Avoid shadows on your face or behind you.
  • Glasses are discouraged unless necessary, and they shouldn’t have tinted lenses or reflections that obscure the eyes.

For Babies or Children:

  • The child should be alone in the photo, not holding toys or pacifiers.
  • Children under six can have a less strict pose and expression.
  • Infants under one can have their eyes closed, and their heads can be supported (as long as the supporting hand isn’t visible).

Printed Photo Guidelines:

  • Use two identical photos measuring 45mm by 35mm.
  • The distance from the top of the head to the chin should be between 29mm and 34mm.
  • Photos must be printed professionally in color on white photographic paper without borders.

Similar to digital photos, printed pictures must be clear and professionally presented. They should be a close-up of your head and upper shoulders against a plain background, showing a forward-facing pose with a neutral expression.

Remember, a proper passport photo is your ticket to a hassle-free start to your travel. Follow these guidelines closely to ensure your application process is smooth, allowing you to focus on planning the fun parts of your trip.