🇦🇺 Australia Passport Photo Requirements (2026 Guide)

Photo Dimensions

Australian passport photos must be 35 mm wide x 45 mm tall (1.38 x 1.77 inches), following the standard European rectangular format. For digital applications, the resolution should be 413 x 531 pixels at 300 DPI.

Background Requirements

The background must be white or light-coloured, plain and uniform. No patterns, shadows, or objects should appear in the background. The background must provide clear contrast with your face and hair.

Face and Expression

A neutral expression is required. No smiling. Your face must be centred, with both eyes open and looking directly at the camera. The head height must be 32-36 mm from chin to crown. Your head must be straight, not tilted or turned.

Glasses

Glasses are not allowed in Australian passport photos. This includes prescription glasses, reading glasses, and any other eyewear. Only medical exceptions apply (with supporting documentation).

Head Coverings

Head coverings are not allowed unless worn for religious or medical reasons. If worn, the full face must be visible and the covering must not cast shadows on the face. A signed statutory declaration may be required.

Photo Recency

Photos must have been taken within the last 6 months and must accurately reflect your current appearance.

How Australia Compares to the US

Common Mistakes

• Wearing glasses: All glasses must be removed for Australian passport photos. No exceptions for prescription lenses.
• Using US or European dimensions: Australia uses 35x45mm, not the US 2x2 inch or Canadian 50x70mm format.
• Incorrect head size: The head must be 32-36mm from chin to crown. Photos taken too far away or too close will be rejected.
• Uneven lighting: Shadows on the face or background are a common rejection reason. Use soft, even lighting.
• Low resolution: Digital photos must be high quality with no pixelation or compression artefacts.