Passport photo rules to follow or risk delays or rejections

IT DOESN'T MATTER IF YOU'RE APPLYING VIA THE INTERNET WITH A DIGITAL PHOTO OR FILLING OUT A PAPER FORM THAT REQUIRES A PHYSICAL SNAP - STICKING TO THE RULES IS KEY 12:50, 21 May

2025 Brits looking to jet off on holiday must make sure their passport photos meet strict criteria to avoid any potential delays or rejections. A suitable photograph is a crucial part of the

passport application process, and failing to provide one can bring the whole process to a standstill. As reported by GlasgowLive, regardless of whether you're applying online with a

digital photo or using a paper form that requires a printed picture, following the guidelines is essential. Even if you look the same, you'll still need to provide a new photograph with

each passport renewal, and the image must be no more than a month old. According to the GOV.UK website: "Your application will be delayed if your photos do not meet the rules."

DIGITAL PHOTOS When it comes to digital photos, there are two ways of acquiring them: * Acquiring one from a photo booth or shop before commencing your passport application * Capturing one

with your own device during the actual passport application. GOV.UK says: "Photos from a booth or shop are more likely to be approved than a photo taken using your own device."

When obtaining a photo via a booth or shop, select the option that provides a code alongside your pictures. This code will be required when filling out your passport application - with the

code entered, your digital image will be attached directly to your application. In contrast, opting to take a photo by yourself requires assistance: someone must help capture the photo

during your application. This photo must be: * Clear and in focus * In colour * Unaltered by computer software * At least 600 pixels wide and 750 pixels tall * At least 50KB and no more than

10MB. “If you’re using a photo taken on your own device, include your head, shoulders and upper body,” the Government website adds. “Do not crop your photo - it will be done for you.”

PRINTED PHOTOS If you are filling out a paper application for a passport you will need two identical printed photos. These must be a close-up of your full head and upper shoulders. The image

of you - from the crown of your head to your chin - must be between 29mm and 34mm high. The photos must: * Measure 45 millimetres (mm) high by 35mm wide (the standard size used in photo

booths in the UK) * Not be a cut down version of a larger picture. GOV.UK says: “If you use a photo booth outside the UK, check it can give you photos that measure 45mm high by 35mm wide.”

Your photos must be: * Printed to a professional standard * Clear and in focus * In colour on plain white photographic paper with no border * Without any creases or tears * Unmarked on both

sides (unless a photo needs to be countersigned) * Unaltered by computer software. BOTH PHOTOS Whether your picture is printed or digital they must: * Contain no other objects or people * Be

taken against a plain light-coloured background * Be in clear contrast to the background * Not have “red eye”. Article continues below In your photo you must: * Be facing forwards and

looking straight at the camera * Have a plain expression and your mouth closed * 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. For more information, visit gov.uk/photos-for-passports .