A UK passport photo must measure 35 mm wide and 45 mm tall for printed versions. For digital submissions, your photo should be at least 600 x 750 pixels with a file size between 50 KB and 10 MB. The background must be plain light grey or cream, and the image should show your full face, eyes open, and clearly visible against an evenly lit background.

No. Smiling is not allowed in a UK passport or visa photo. You must keep a neutral facial expression, with your mouth closed and eyes open. The HM Passport Office requires a natural look — no exaggerated expressions, no raised eyebrows, and no showing of teeth. 

To ensure your photo is accepted by the HM Passport Office, avoid these common errors:

• Hair or headwear covering your eyes, eyebrows, or ears.

• Shadows or reflections on your glasses that make your eyes unclear.

• Wearing tinted glasses or sunglasses — these are not permitted.

• Head coverings that obscure your face (unless for religious or medical reasons).

• Busy or patterned backgrounds, or photos that are too bright (overexposed) or too dark (underexposed).

• Using filters or editing tools that alter your appearance. Your photo must reflect your true likeness.

When taking your UK passport photo, dress in plain, everyday clothing. Avoid uniforms, sleeveless tops, off-shoulder outfits, or large accessories that may distract from your face. Hats and head coverings are only allowed for religious or medical purposes, and your full face must remain visible from chin to forehead. 

To make sure your photo meets UK passport and visa photo requirements, follow these simple steps:

• Use Passport Photo Go UK — the app automatically adjusts lighting, framing, and background to meet all HM Passport Office specifications.

• Make sure your photo is clear, recent (taken within the last month), and accurately represents your current appearance.

• Avoid overexposure, low resolution, or heavy editing that may result in rejection.