UK passport photo online (35x45 mm)
Applying online or by post, HM Passport Office wants a plain light grey background and a head 29–34 mm tall. We cut out the background, size your head and give you both the digital file and a print sheet.
1Choose country and photo size
2Add your photo
Or drop a photo here. Face the camera in front of a plain light wall, no glasses.
3Adjust
Replaces the background and cleans the edges around your hair. Hold Compare on the photo to see the difference.
4Check
- Checks appear after you add a photo.
5Download
Digital photo
For online applications.
Print sheet
Print at 100% scale. A 4×6 in sheet prints at any photo kiosk or pharmacy.
UK passport photo requirements
- 35 mm wide by 45 mm high for printed photos.
- Head 29–34 mm from chin to the top of the head.
- Plain light grey background with no shadows or patterns.
- Digital photos at least 600 × 750 pixels, JPEG, 50 KB to 10 MB.
- Taken within the last month, neutral expression, mouth closed.
- No glasses unless medically needed, no head coverings except for religious or medical reasons.
Printed photos by post
Paper forms need two identical printed photos. One must be signed on the back by someone who has known you for 2 years, if your form asks for a countersignature.
Checked against official guidance in September 2026. Rules change, so confirm with the GOV.UK – Photos for passports before you apply.
How to take a photo that gets accepted
- Stand about 1 m (3–4 ft) in front of a plain white or light wall, facing a window for soft, even light.
- Ask someone to take the photo at eye level from about 1.2 m (4 ft), or use a timer. Keep your shoulders in the frame.
- Look straight at the camera with a neutral expression, mouth closed, both eyes open.
- Remove glasses, hats and headphones. Religious head coverings are usually allowed if your whole face is visible.
- Upload the photo, check the green head guides and the checklist, then download or print.
Frequently asked questions
What size is a UK passport photo?
35 mm wide by 45 mm high, with the head 29–34 mm from chin to crown. Digital photos should be at least 600 × 750 pixels.
Can I take my own UK passport photo?
Yes. For online applications you can upload a photo taken by a friend or family member, as long as it meets the rules.
What background colour does a UK passport photo need?
A plain light grey background. This tool can replace your background with light grey automatically.
Is my photo uploaded anywhere?
No. Face detection, cropping and background removal run inside your browser. Your photo never leaves your device and we never see it.