What size photo do I need for a UK visa?

UK visa photos must be 45mm tall × 35mm wide (approximately 1.8 × 1.4 inches). This is the same size as UK passport photos. The head height should be between 29mm and 34mm.

How many photos do I need for a UK visa application?

Most UK visa applications require 2 identical passport-style photographs. However, online applications may only require a digital photo upload.

Can I wear glasses in my UK visa photo?

No, glasses are not allowed in UK visa photos. This rule applies to all types of glasses including prescription glasses and sunglasses.

Do UK visa photo requirements differ from passport photo requirements?

UK visa photos follow the same requirements as UK passport photos: 45mm × 35mm size, white or light grey background, neutral expression, no glasses, taken within the last 6 months.

🛂 UKVI Compliant

UK Visa Photo Requirements

Create photos for all UK visa types: Skilled Worker, Student, Family, Visitor, and more. Same 45×35mm standard as UK passport photos.

Create UK Visa Photo →

👤

45 × 35 mm

1.8 × 1.4"

UK Visa Types Using This Photo

💼

Skilled Worker Visa

Formerly Tier 2 visa. For workers with job offers from UK employers.

Previously: Tier 2 General

🎓

Student Visa

For studying at a UK educational institution with a CAS number.

Previously: Tier 4

👨‍👩‍👧

Family Visa

Spouse visa, partner visa, parent visa, and child visa applications.

Including fiancé(e) visa

✈️

Standard Visitor Visa

For tourism, visiting family, business meetings, or medical treatment.

Up to 6 months

🏢

Health & Care Worker

For NHS or social care workers with job offers in health sector.

Reduced fees available

🚀

Global Talent Visa

For leaders or potential leaders in academia, arts, or technology.

Previously: Tier 1 Exceptional

UKVI Photo Specifications

Size Requirements

Photo Size	45 × 35 mm
In Inches	1.8 × 1.4 inches
Head Height (chin to crown)	29 - 34 mm
Quantity Required	2 photos

Photo Standards

✓ White or light grey background
✓ Taken within the last 6 months
✓ Neutral expression, mouth closed
✓ Looking straight at camera
✗ No glasses (any type)
✗ No hats (except religious)

Applying via VFS Global?

📍

VFS Global Visa Application Centres

If you're applying for a UK visa through VFS Global, they offer photo services at their centres. However, you can save money by bringing your own compliant photos or using VisaPicPro for free.

VFS Centre

Photo Service

£15-25

UK Photo Booth

Self-Service

£5-8

VisaPicPro

At Home

FREE

UK Visa Photo FAQ

Are UK visa and passport photo requirements the same? ▼

Yes, UK visa photos follow the same requirements as UK passport photos:

45mm × 35mm size
White or light grey background
No glasses allowed
Neutral expression

The only difference is that passport photos must be taken within the last month, while visa photos can be up to 6 months old.

Do I need printed photos for UK visa applications? ▼

Online applications: You'll upload a digital photo during the application process. However, you may still need printed photos for your biometric appointment at a VAC (Visa Application Centre).

Paper applications: You'll need 2 printed photos attached to your application form.

What if my photo is rejected at the VAC? ▼

If your photo doesn't meet requirements at the Visa Application Centre:

You can take new photos at the VAC (additional fee)
You may be asked to reschedule your appointment
Common rejection reasons: glasses, wrong size, shadows, wrong background

Use VisaPicPro to ensure your photo meets all UKVI requirements before your appointment.

Can I use the same photo for multiple UK visa applications? ▼

Yes, as long as:

The photo is less than 6 months old
Your appearance hasn't significantly changed
The photo meets current UKVI requirements

It's best to create a fresh photo for each application to avoid any issues.