UK Passport Photo Requirements
A UK passport photo must be 35×45 mm with a head height of 29–34 mm on a plain light grey background, and a neutral expression — no smiling. Here is the full HMPO spec and how to get it right at home.
| Photo size | 35 × 45 mm |
| Head height (chin to top of hair) | 29 – 34 mm |
| Eye line from bottom edge | Roughly the upper third of the photo |
| Background | Plain light grey |
| Print type | Photo paper, matte or glossy (printed photos) |
- • Taken within the last month for online renewal, 6 months for paper forms
- • Neutral expression — no smiling, mouth closed, eyes open and clearly visible
- • No glasses, hats or head coverings (religious headwear allowed if the face is fully visible)
- • Photo must be a true likeness — no filters, retouching or red-eye removal
UK passport photo rules that catch people out
The UK rules differ from the US in three ways that trip up most applicants: the background must be light grey (not white), you must not smile at all, and the head measurement of 29–34 mm is taken to the top of your head, not your hair. A fringe that covers the eyebrows or glasses — even transition lenses — will get a photo rejected.
For online renewals HMPO now requires the photo to be taken within the last month, and the digital file must be at least 600×750 pixels. Print applicants need the photo on real photo paper — a screenshot printed on standard paper is rejected.
How to take a compliant UK passport photo
- Hang a plain light grey backdrop, or stand against a light grey wall in even daylight.
- Look straight at the camera, mouth closed, neutral expression, both eyes open.
- Keep the full head in frame — from chin to the top of the skull — with the head centred.
- Crop to 35×45 mm with head height between 29 and 34 mm.
- Save the digital file at 600×750 px or larger for online renewal, or print on 4×6 photo paper.
Make your UK passport photo free
Upload a photo — get the exact 35×45 mm crop, light grey background and head-height check. In your browser, nothing uploaded.
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