UK visa photo (35x45 mm)
Plain cream or light grey background. Most visa applications now take your photo at the biometrics appointment or through the ID check app. Free, no sign-up, no watermark.
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 visa photo requirements
- Size: 35 × 45 mm.
- Head from chin to crown: 29–34 mm.
- Background: light grey, plain, no shadows or patterns.
- Printed photos: 35 × 45 mm, head 29–34 mm.
- Plain light grey or cream background, no shadows.
- Many applicants have their photo taken at the visa application centre instead.
Checked in October 2026. Rules change, so confirm with GOV.UK – Visas and immigration 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 visa photo?
35 × 45 mm, with the head 29–34 mm from chin to crown.
What background does a UK visa photo need?
A plain light grey background with no shadows. This tool can replace your background with light grey automatically.
Can I take this photo at home?
Yes. Use a plain light wall, soft daylight and a camera at eye level, then upload the photo here to crop and size it.
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.