What size is a UK passport photo?

UK passport photos must be 35mm wide × 45mm tall (approximately 1.4 × 1.8 inches). The head, measured from chin to crown, should be between 29mm and 34mm.

Can I wear glasses in my UK passport photo?

No, since November 2016, glasses are not allowed in UK passport photos under any circumstances. This includes prescription glasses, transition lenses, and sunglasses.

What background colour is required for UK passport photos?

UK passport photos require a plain white or light grey background. The background should be free from shadows and have no patterns or textures.

Where can I get UK passport photos taken?

You can take UK passport photos at photo booths, pharmacies (Boots, Superdrug), Post Office, or use online services like VisaPicPro to create them at home for free using your smartphone.

🇬🇧 HMPO Compliant

UK Passport Photo Requirements

Create a 35×45mm passport photo meeting all HMPO (Her Majesty's Passport Office) requirements. White or light grey background, no glasses allowed.

Create UK Passport Photo →

👤

35 × 45 mm

1.4 × 1.8"

HMPO Photo Specifications

Size Requirements

Photo Size	35 × 45 mm
In Inches	1.4 × 1.8 inches
Head Height (chin to crown)	29 - 34 mm
Digital Resolution	600 DPI minimum

Technical Requirements

Background	White or light grey
Photo Age	Within last month
Paper Type	Photo paper (not recycled)
Quantity	2 identical photos

🚫

No Glasses Allowed

Since November 2016, HMPO no longer accepts passport photos with glasses — no exceptions, even for medical reasons.

• Remove all eyeglasses including prescription glasses
• Transition lenses not allowed
• Sunglasses not allowed
• Contact lenses are fine (except coloured/costume lenses)

Where to Get UK Passport Photos

🏪

Photo Booths

Train stations, shopping centres

£5-8

💊

Pharmacies

Boots, Superdrug, Lloyds

£10-15

📮

Post Office

Check & Send service

£12-16

📱

VisaPicPro

DIY at home

FREE

Digital Photo for Online Applications

When applying for a UK passport online at gov.uk, you can upload a digital photo. The requirements are the same as printed photos, with additional digital specifications:

File Format

JPEG (.jpg) format only

Minimum Size

600 × 750 pixels

File Size

At least 50KB, max 10MB

UK Passport Photo FAQ

Can I smile in my UK passport photo? ▼

You should have a neutral expression with your mouth closed. A slight, natural smile is acceptable, but teeth should not be visible. Avoid grinning, frowning, or raising eyebrows.

Can I wear a headscarf or religious covering? ▼

Yes, religious head coverings are allowed, but:

Your face must be fully visible from chin to forehead
No shadows should fall on your face
The covering should not obscure any facial features

Does my baby need a passport photo? ▼

Yes, all children including newborns need their own passport with a photo. For babies:

Eyes should be open (as much as possible)
Mouth should be closed
No dummies, toys, or hands visible
Lay baby on a white sheet for the background
Parent's hands should not be visible

→ Baby Passport Photo Guide

How long are UK passport photos valid? ▼

Photos should be taken within the last month and must reflect your current appearance. If your appearance has changed significantly (new hairstyle doesn't matter, but changes like growing/shaving a beard do), you need new photos.