Given the specific nature of passport photo requirements, it’s not that rare for pictures to be rejected by UK authorities. It can definitely be annoying! However, the passport office allows applicants to send new pictures and get the process back on track. When this happens, it’s important to ensure that the new photos are up to standards, to avoid further delays.
In this article, we’ll explain exactly what happens when a passport photo is rejected in the UK and what to do. Keep reading for more details.
What happens if a passport photo gets rejected in the UK – paper application
If the photo attached to a passport application gets rejected, the HM passport office will notify the applicant as soon as possible. Depending on the contact information they have, citizens will receive either an email or a letter saying that the passport photos have been rejected and setting up a deadline to send in new ones.
In case of passport photo rejection, the application process will simply be put on hold until the authorities receive new British passport photos. If the applicant sends the replacement photos within the specified time frame, the procedure will resume right away and go on with the usual processing times.
If the deadline is missed, the passport application will be cancelled. In this case, to get a new UK passport, it will be necessary to apply again, paying the fees a second time. The HM passport office does not specify how many times they will ask for a new passport photograph before cancelling the application.
What happens if a digital photo is denied while applying online?
When having a British passport renewed, UK citizens can apply online with a simplified procedure. In this case, the HM passport office will require a digital passport photo taken according to the official requirements.
If the digital picture gets rejected, the applicant will receive an email asking them to send a new photo. Since the application was completed online, it will be possible to provide a replacement photo immediately by email.
Just as for paper applications, the UK passport office will set a deadline that, if not met, will result in the cancellation of the procedure.
Related readings:
- Best free UK passport photo app in 2024 [iOS & Android]
- Sainsbury’s photo booth: nearby locations, price (and more)
- How to print a passport-size photo (at home & a shop nearby)
- Jewellery passport photo rules in the UK [can you wear earrings & examples]
- Can you have a fringe in a passport photo [all passport photo hair rules covered]
- What to wear for a passport photo (hoodie, shirt, prints & other requirements)
- Online passport photo booth near you
Replace a rejected UK passport photo with Passport Photo Online
Have your UK passport photos been rejected? Trust Passport Photo Online, an app with over a million users, to get new ones directly from home.
Taking passport photos with us is child’s play, just snap one with your smartphone and upload it to our app, we’ll take it from there:
- The image gets cropped to the required size and the background gets removed seamlessly. You are able to take passport photos with clear contrast and a light grey background from anywhere, anytime you need them. We’ll double check every detail and give you a 200% money back guarantee in case of any problem.
- Our AI inspects the photo, finding any possible mistakes. We can even remove shadows and small accessories such as a hair clip. Once you get our approval, you can be 100% sure that all passport photo requirements are met to the letter.
- You have unlimited tries. You can take all the pictures you need until you get a perfect one, at no additional costs. Perfect for a hassle-free experience for all the family.
- With Passport Photo Online you can get both the printouts and the digital photo, no need to pay extra.
You can get your pictures delivered or download the online passport photo immediately, ready for British passport renewal.
What happens if your passport photo is rejected: FAQ
To conclude, we’ll answer a few questions about passport photo rejection.
What happens if my passport photo is rejected in the UK?
Do you have to pay again if a passport photo is rejected in the UK?
How do you know if your passport photo is rejected?
Will my passport photo be rejected if I smile?
Why does my passport photo keep being rejected?
UK passport photo failed- conclusions
Since the photos for British passports have very strict requirements, it’s not uncommon for them to be refused by the authorities. If this happens, the passport office will contact the applicant as soon as possible, asking for the re-submission of the photo. If the picture is replaced before the set deadline, the process will continue; otherwise, the application will be rejected.
To get new passport pictures, use Passport Photo Online. Your smartphone will be your personal photo booth, available anywhere 24/7.
Riccardo Ollmert is a multilingual writer and travel expert. He studied Languages, Literature and Publishing Industry at La Sapienza University of Rome. His passions include traveling and learning new skills.
