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Passport photo rules Brits must follow or risk application being delayed or rejectedIt doesn't matter if you're applying via the internet with a digital photo or filling out a paper form

that requires a physical snap - sticking to the rules is keyCommentsLifestyleFiona Callingham Lifestyle writer12:50, 21 May 2025You need to check the passport photo rules before applying for

the document(Image: Getty) Brits looking to jet off on holiday must make sure their passport photos meet strict criteria to avoid any potential delays or rejections. A suitable photograph

is a crucial part of the passport application process, and failing to provide one can bring the whole process to a standstill.

As reported by GlasgowLive, regardless of whether you're applying online with a digital photo or using a paper form that requires a printed picture, following the guidelines is essential.

Even if you look the same, you'll still need to provide a new photograph with each passport renewal, and the image must be no more than a month old.

‌ According to the GOV.UK website: "Your application will be delayed if your photos do not meet the rules."

‌Digital photos When it comes to digital photos, there are two ways of acquiring them:

Acquiring one from a photo booth or shop before commencing your passport applicationCapturing one with your own device during the actual passport application. GOV.UK says: "Photos from a

booth or shop are more likely to be approved than a photo taken using your own device." When obtaining a photo via a booth or shop, select the option that provides a code alongside your

pictures.

Article continues below This code will be required when filling out your passport application - with the code entered, your digital image will be attached directly to your application. In

contrast, opting to take a photo by yourself requires assistance: someone must help capture the photo during your application.

This photo must be:

Clear and in focusIn colourUnaltered by computer softwareAt least 600 pixels wide and 750 pixels tallAt least 50KB and no more than 10MB.‌ “If you’re using a photo taken on your own device,

include your head, shoulders and upper body,” the Government website adds. “Do not crop your photo - it will be done for you.”

Printed photos If you are filling out a paper application for a passport you will need two identical printed photos. These must be a close-up of your full head and upper shoulders.

The image of you - from the crown of your head to your chin - must be between 29mm and 34mm high. The photos must:

‌Measure 45 millimetres (mm) high by 35mm wide (the standard size used in photo booths in the UK)Not be a cut down version of a larger picture. GOV.UK says: “If you use a photo booth outside

the UK, check it can give you photos that measure 45mm high by 35mm wide.”

Your photos must be:

‌Printed to a professional standardClear and in focusIn colour on plain white photographic paper with no borderWithout any creases or tearsUnmarked on both sides (unless a photo needs to be

countersigned)Unaltered by computer software.Both photos Whether your picture is printed or digital they must:

Contain no other objects or peopleBe taken against a plain light-coloured backgroundBe in clear contrast to the backgroundNot have “red eye”.Article continues below In your photo you must:

Be facing forwards and looking straight at the cameraHave a plain expression and your mouth closedHave your eyes open and visibleNot have hair in front of your eyesNot have a head covering

(unless it’s for religious or medical reasons)Not have anything covering your faceNot have any shadows on your face or behind you. For more information, visit gov.uk/photos-for-passports .