UK Passport (35x45)

Requirements

• Plain white background, no shadows.
• Head (chin to crown) 64-76% of image height.
• Eye line 48-68% from the bottom.
• Neutral expression, both eyes open.
• Taken within the last 6 months.
• Glasses discouraged; banned by many authorities.

Official source ↗

How it works

Upload a head-and-shoulders phone photo; we align it, whiten the background, crop to 35x45 mm and run 12 measured checks in seconds.

Free check & preview; photos are never stored.

Step-by-step preparation

1. Shoot against a plain light background (cream or light grey are fine) with even front light.
2. Whole face visible: hair off the eyes; no glare on glasses (tinted or sunglasses are banned).
3. Upload to the tool: the UK digital standard needs at least 600×750 px — the tool outputs 630×810 px and measures the 29–34 mm head band.
4. Apply online ('use a digital photo') and upload the file directly — the UK does not require prints.
5. Check the report: HMPO's automated quality check runs similar measurements.

Most common rejection reasons

• Head size outside the 29–34 mm band.
• Background shadows/patterns or uneven face lighting.
• Glare on glasses, closed eyes, open mouth.
• Over-compressed or blurry files.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need printed photos for a UK passport?
No — the online application is fully digital and needs a photo of at least 600×750 pixels. The tool outputs 630×810 px measured against the rules.

What background colour does a UK passport photo need?
Plain and light-coloured — cream or light grey is recommended, white is also accepted. No shadows.

Are glasses allowed?
Remove them if you can; if worn, there must be no glare and frames must not cover the eyes. Tinted glasses and sunglasses are banned.

Are the rules different for babies and children?
Children under 6 don't need a neutral expression or to look straight at the camera; under 1, eyes don't have to be open.

📖 Read the in-depth guide: Country-by-country photo sizes →