UK Passport Photo Requirements 2026: Complete Guide
UK biometric passport photo requirements: 35×45 mm, white background, no glasses. HMPO guidelines explained clearly with common rejection reasons.
·5 min read
UK passport photo size
HM Passport Office (HMPO) specifies precise requirements for all UK passport photos.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Size | 35 × 45 mm |
| Digital size | 413 × 531 pixels (minimum) |
| Background | Plain light grey or plain cream/white |
| Head height | 29–34 mm (64–75% of frame) |
| DPI | 600 DPI (printed) |
| Recency | Within last month for new applicants |
HMPO expression and pose rules
- Neutral expression — no smiling.
- Mouth closed.
- Eyes open and clearly visible.
- Looking directly at the camera.
- No hair across the eyes.
What's not allowed
- Glasses — not permitted in UK passport photos.
- Head coverings — not allowed unless for religious or medical reasons. Face must be fully visible.
- Other people or objects — nothing in the background.
- Red eye or flash reflection.
Digital photo submissions
For the online UK passport application, you can submit a digital photo directly. The minimum size is 413×531 pixels, and it must be a JPEG or PNG under 10 MB. The background should be plain light grey or white with no shadows.
Create your UK passport photo
Use PhotoPass for UK Passport to generate a compliant 35×45 mm photo with light grey background and proper head sizing.