UK passport photo requirements (35×45 mm)

Educational summary for travelers and applicants; not legal advice. Compare every detail with the issuing authority’s current checklist before you submit.

UK government guidance requires a recent color photo for passports that meets size and composition standards. Check HM Passport Office for the latest rules before you apply. The My New ID Photo preset for this document is 35×45 mm, matching the dimensions in our built-in specification table.

Size and crop

The image must be 35 mm wide by 45 mm high. Your face—from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head (without hair counted excessively high)—must occupy the correct proportion of the frame as shown in official examples. Do not crop too tight or leave excessive empty space above the head.

Expression and direction

Look straight at the camera with a plain expression and mouth closed. Eyes open and clearly visible (no hair across the eyes). No head tilt. Remove tinted glasses; prescription glasses only if unavoidable and eyes must be visible with no glare.

Background and contrast

Plain cream or light grey background without pattern or shadow. Strong contrast between background and face. No other people or objects visible.

Making this photo in My New ID Photo

Choose United Kingdom and Passport for a 35×45 mm output. The overlay follows ICAO-style proportions—position your face straight-on with the eyes on the correct band. Replace a cluttered background if needed, then export for print or digital upload according to HM Passport Office’s current file rules.

Official sources

The following links point to official or primary sources we use to summarize size, composition, and quality rules. Third-party pages are listed only when they reproduce the same standards (for example ICAO). Always read the latest version on the authority’s site before you submit an application.

Disclaimer: Requirements change. Verify dimensions, file format, and expression rules on the official source linked from your application portal before submission.

Open the generator, browse all country guides, or read the general requirements overview.