From how to take the perfect picture to the rules for children and infants, here’s everything you need to know.
8 September 2024
So, your passport has its 10 years of globetrotting – or gone missing prematurely – and now it’s time to get a brand-new travel document. The UK passport is one of the strongest passports in the world, and applications are poured over meticulously by those tasked with issuing them. The rules are similar, if not the same, whether you’re ordering a regular passport or a fast-track passport and submitting a physical or digital application. However, before settling down in front of the paperwork or computer, it’s essential to have a passport photo that meets all the requirements. If you’re travelling soon, ensure you’ve checked how long it takes to get a passport and if your current passport expiry date would allow you to travel in case there’s any chance a new application is rejected.
What are the Rules for Passport Photos?
Passport photo requirements vary slightly depending on whether you’re submitting a digital or printed photograph, in that physical copies must fit precise dimensions. However, picture quality rules are the same for both types. Photographs must be clear, in focus, and in colour, and unaltered by computer software such as Photoshop or in-app filters. Additionally, photos must feature no other objects or people and must be taken against a plain light-coloured background, preferably white or light grey.
- Digital pictures must be at least 600 pixels wide and 750 pixels tall, with a file size between 50KB and 10MB.
- Printed photographs must measure 45 millimetres high by 35 millimetres wide; this is the standard size printed by UK photobooths. They cannot be cut-down versions of larger images.
Regarding appearance, passport photo requirements are strict, and following them will ensure your passport application is valid. According to official guidelines, in passport photos, digital or printed, you must:
- Be facing forward and looking directly at the camera
- Have a plain expression, and your mouth closed – no smiling
- Have your eyes open and visible
- Not have hair in front of your eyes
- Not have a head covering (unless it’s for religious or medical reasons)
- Not have anything covering your face
- Not have any shadows on your face or behind you
If you must wear glasses in your passport photo, they cannot be sunglasses or tinted glasses, and your eyes must not be obscured by frames, glare, shadow, or reflection.
What are the Passport Rules for Children?
Children under six do not have to look directly at the camera or have a plain expression, but they must appear unaccompanied in the passport photo. There must be no visible toys or dummies in the images. Additionally, children under the age of one do not need to have their eyes open. You can support their head with your hand, but your hand must not be visible.
What is the Best Colour to Wear for a Passport Photo?
To ensure your passport photo is accepted, it is best to wear light, neutral colours that complement the white or light-coloured background.
Where Can I Get My Passport Photo Taken?
You can take printed and digital passport photographs in supermarkets, stationery stores, and shopping centres across the UK. Many convenient locations are available, allowing you to find the closest photobooths.
How Can I Look Good in Passport Photos?
It’s no secret that our passport picture is often our most detested photo. However, there are ways to soften the blow of the picture you’ll be handing over to Border Force for the next ten years. Paying attention to lighting and mastering the art of “smizing” – no smiling, remember! – can significantly improve your photo.
If you’re applying makeup before taking your passport photo, skip the sunscreen and use products such as setting powder and primer – that flash is rarely your friend.
