🇬🇧 United Kingdom Passport Photo Requirements (2026 Guide)
Photo Dimensions
UK passport photos must be 35 mm wide x 45 mm tall (1.38 x 1.77 inches). This is the standard European rectangular format, significantly smaller and narrower than the US 2x2 inch square. For digital applications, the resolution should be 413 x 531 pixels at 300 DPI.
Background Requirements
The background must be light grey or white, plain and uniform. Unlike the US (which accepts only white/off-white), the UK specifically allows light grey. No shadows, patterns, or other people should appear in the background.
Face and Expression
Your face must be clearly visible with both eyes fully open and looking directly at the camera. A neutral expression with mouth closed is required. No smiling. The head height must be 29-34 mm (roughly 64-76% of the frame height), and the face should occupy 70-80% of the photo.
Glasses
Glasses are not allowed in UK passport photos. This rule has been in effect since 2016. Even prescription glasses without tinted lenses must be removed. This is stricter than the US, which still permits glasses.
Head Coverings
Head coverings are not allowed unless worn for religious or medical reasons. If worn, the covering must not obscure any part of the face from the bottom of the chin to the top of the forehead, and it must not cast any shadow on the face.
Photo Recency
Photos must be taken within the last month for online applications, or within 6 months for postal applications. The photo must reflect your current appearance.
How the UK Compares to the US
| Requirement | United Kingdom | United States |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 35 x 45 mm (rectangular) | 51 x 51 mm (square) |
| Pixels | 413 x 531 | 600 x 600 |
| Background | Light grey or white | White or off-white |
| Glasses | Not allowed | Allowed (no glare) |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed | Neutral or natural smile |
| Head Height | 29-34 mm (64-76%) | 50-69% of frame |
Common Mistakes
- Wearing glasses: The most common UK-specific rejection. Remove all glasses, even clear prescription lenses.
- Smiling or open mouth: UK requires neutral expression with mouth closed. Even a slight smile can be rejected.
- Wrong dimensions: Using a US-sized 2x2 photo for a UK application. The UK uses the smaller 35x45mm format.
- Head too small in frame: UK requires the face to fill 70-80% of the photo. A head that appears too small will be rejected.
- Red eye: Red eye from flash is not acceptable. Use natural lighting or a camera with red-eye reduction.
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