UK passport photo: 35×45 mm
UK passport photos are 35×45 mm on a plain cream or light grey background. Choose a digital upload for GOV.UK online, or two identical prints for post. Specs follow GOV.UK official guidelines.
| Specification | Official requirement |
|---|---|
| Print size | 35 × 45 mm |
| Online digital minimum | 600 × 750 pixels (check current GOV.UK rules) |
| Head height (print) | 29–34 mm (crown to chin) |
| Background | Plain cream or light grey |
| Paper applications | 2 identical printed photos required |
Always confirm the latest rules on the official government site before you submit.
Cream or textured walls, wrong head size after a selfie, and beauty filters cause most delays.
- UK photos are 35×45 mm rectangles—never submit a US 2×2 square.
- Cream walls with texture or busy curtains are a common reject.
- Online checks fail when the face is too close, too far, or the background is uneven.
- Know whether you need a digital upload or two prints before you shoot.
Make your passport photo now
Crop to the official size in your browser, then download to upload or print.
Works on phone or desktop. No app download.
Can I print my own passport photo at home?
Will a home-printed photo be accepted?
What size should I print?
What you need:
- • At least 600 pixels wide and 750 pixels tall
- • At least 50KB and no more than 10MB
- • Clear and in focus
- • In color
- • Unaltered by computer software
You download:
- • Digital file for GOV.UK online (min 600×750 px)
- • Higher-resolution upload if your camera allows
What you need:
- • 2 identical printed photos required
- • 35mm wide × 45mm high (standard UK photo booth size)
- • Printed to professional standard
- • No creases or tears
- • Unmarked on both sides
You print:
- • Two identical 35×45 mm prints
- • Same 35×45 mm size—keep head height 29–34 mm after cropping
- • No toys, pacifiers, or another person’s hands in the frame
- • Only the child; eyes open when possible
What size is a UK passport photo?
35 mm wide × 45 mm high. For prints, head height (crown to chin) must be 29–34 mm. Online digital photos need at least 600 × 750 pixels—check GOV.UK for current rules.
Can I take a UK passport photo at home or on my phone?
Yes, if it meets GOV.UK rules on size, plain cream or light grey background, lighting, and expression. Use the rear camera, good daylight, and our free 35×45 cropper.
Is there a free passport photo checker?
Our tool includes a pre-download checklist for common rules. For online applications, GOV.UK also offers an official photo check—use both: crop here first, then verify on GOV.UK.
Can you wear glasses in a UK passport photo?
Glasses are allowed if your eyes are clearly visible and there is no glare. Tinted lenses and sunglasses are not permitted.
Can you wear makeup in a UK passport photo?
Everyday makeup is fine if it reflects your normal appearance. Avoid heavy filters or editing apps that change how you look.
Do I need a digital or printed photo?
Online applications through GOV.UK use a digital upload. Paper forms sent by post need two identical printed 35×45 mm photos.
Who can sign or countersign a passport photo?
For some paper applications, the back of one photo must be signed by a countersignatory who has known you for at least two years and holds an eligible profession listed on GOV.UK.
Where can I get passport photos in the UK?
Photo booths, Tesco, Boots, Timpson, Snappy Snaps, and post offices are common. Taking your own photo and printing a sheet is often cheapest—see our store comparison guide.
What are the rules for baby passport photos?
Same 35×45 mm size. No other person in the frame. Lay infants on a plain sheet and shoot from above. Pacifiers and toys should not show.
What background colour do UK passport photos need?
Plain cream or light grey for printed photos. Digital photos need a plain light-coloured background with no shadows— not bright white like US photos.
What are British passport photo requirements?
The same as UK passport photo rules: 35×45 mm (or the current GOV.UK digital minimum), plain cream or light grey background, and correct head height.