Digital UK Passport Photo Online

Prepare a perfect passport photo with guaranteed acceptance!

1M+
approved
ID photos
200%
Guarantee of
acceptance
Digital UK Passport Photo Online
1M+
approved
ID photos
200%
Guarantee of
acceptance

How does it work?

Perfect biometric photo within 3 minutes.

Check how simple and smart is it!

Take or upload a photo

Take or upload a photo

That's the only thing you need to do. Take or upload a photo - we will take care of the rest.

AI prepares the photo

AI prepares the photo

Artificial Intelligence will check your photo, crop it to the right size and remove the background.

Expert verification

Expert verification

Our Photo Expert will make additional verification to check if your photo meets the official requirements.

Digital or printed photos

Digital or printed photos

You can download a digital version and order a printout which we will send within 2-3 days. Delivery is free!

Why?

Take a biometric photo conveniently without leaving home

You save time and money

Convenience

Don't waste time, effort or money. You can take your passport photo without leaving home.

Professional service

Over 1 million people have used our services within the past 11 years. Our Photo Experts are available 24/7.

Money-back guarantee

We give you a guarantee of acceptance by authorities or otherwise we will refund you double the price!

Satisfaction guarantee

Take as many photo shots as you want - you pay only when you are satisfied.

How to take a photo?

Taking a photo for your ID has never been so easy.

Follow simple instruction to take a perfect ID photo.

1

Body-camera distance

The distance between the face and the camera should be about 40 cm. Ideally the photo should be taken by the other person.

2

Posture: Straight ahead

Place your face in front of the lens. Hold the camera at eye level and keep neutral face expression.

3

Lighting

Stand facing the light source, for example an exposed window. The background will be cut out, don't worry about it.

UK Passport Digital Photo Online - Size & Requirements

ᐅ Digital Passport Photo - UK Passport Picture Checker
Size
Width: 900 px
Height: 1200 px
Resolution
1 dpi
Is it suitable for online submission?
Yes
Image definition parameters
Head height: 55 %
Top of the Photo to Top of the Hair: 15 %
Is it printable?
Yes
Background Color
Show more

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More about UK Passport Photo Online - Requirements

Passport photo UK requirements

A British passport is a very important and frequently used document in Great Britain. It is essential for travelling abroad, but can also be used for identification purposes. The UK passport service gives applicants the option of completing their passport application or submitting digital passport photos online.

 It is worth choosing the latter route—applying via the UK government website and uploading your biometric passport photo online, making sure you comply with the UK passport photo requirements. It is easier, £9.50 cheaper and usually quicker.

UK passport photo guide

The UK passport photo requirements are very simple. 

  • Passport photos should be taken against a plain light coloured background, preferably white or another neutral colour, such as light grey.
  • Your entire head must be visible in the picture, from the top of your hair to your shoulders, so that your face covers 70-80% of the photo. 
  • You need to make sure your eyes are open and clear in the image.
  • Your body and face should be pointing forward and you should be looking straight ahead. 
  • Your facial expression must be neutral and you must keep your mouth closed.
  • You should pose for your photo without a hat or glasses unless your glasses cannot be removed for medical reasons. Even then, your eyes must be clearly visible and your glasses must not reflect light or create glare.

GB passport photo size

The digital photo should be clear and of good quality. The minimum UK passport photo size is listed as 600 x 750 pixels, but it is recommended that the picture measures 900 x 1200 pixels. The file size needs to be between 50 KB and 10 MB.

Digital photo background

A digital passport photo must be taken against a plain, light-coloured background. This ensures that the person in the picture is in sharp contrast with their background, making their image clearer and highlights facial features, key when taking biometric photos. The background must not be textured and there cannot be any objects visible in the picture.

Face and posture specification for a digital photo

It is important to correctly position the face and body in the photo, when applying for a Uk passport online. Applicants must stand straight in front of the camera and look directly into the lens. Side profile photos are not accepted and will result in the application being rejected.

Facial expression

Keep your facial expression neutral. Do not smile. The mouth must be closed and the head must be kept straight (do not tilt it in any direction!).

Eyes

When posing, the applicant’s eyes must be open and visible, especially the irises. Make sure that there is no ‘red eye’ effect in the photo. Also, there must not be hair over the eyes—if you have a fringe, it must be pushed to one side.

Hair

There are no specific guidelines for hairstyles on digital British passport photos. The hair may be tied back or loose, but it must not cover any part of the applicant’s face. It is, therefore, best to brush it back, although the ears need not be visible. Remember that your eyebrows and eyes must be visible.

Head coverings

For the photo, head coverings such as hats, headbands, and caps are not allowed. Religious and medical head coverings are the exception, although they must still not cover the face.

Shadows

There must be no shadows in your UK passport photo. Make sure that they are not on your face, shoulders, or in the background of the photo.

Glasses

Applicants cannot wear sunglasses or tinted glasses. Prescription glasses and other medical glasses should be removed wherever possible. If not, you must ensure that they do not reflect light or create glare and that the eyes are fully visible.

How to get a digital photo for a British passport?

When applying for a British passport online, applicants are required to take and upload a digital passport photo. The UK passport service has very strict rules and the passport photo must have been taken within the last month. If you want to get a digital photo for a British passport, there are five ways to do it:

  • Take a photo with a smartphone or digital camera whilst completing the application. You just need someone to take the picture for you.
  • Visit a professional photographer’s studio.
  • Go to a photo shop and get a digital photo. Some shops provide a code to add the photo to the passport application.
  • Use a photo booth before applying. Applicants can again be given a code to add the photo to the passport application, although not all photo booths offer this service.
  • The best option is to use a smartphone or tablet to take pictures with our British Passport Digital Photo Online Tool or through our app, available for download via the App store. In both cases, you can use a photo from your photo gallery (although it must have been taken within the last month) or take a new one.

Taking passport photos using your phone

With our British Passport Digital Photo Online Tool or app, you can easily take a new passport image from the comfort of your home. So, how does it work? The following guidelines for taking UK passport photos with your phone will show you how:

Use a smartphone with a high-resolution camera

Use a digital camera, tablet, iPhone or any other smartphone to take a photo. One important condition - the device must have a digital camera that takes pictures in high resolution, with the ability to adjust the focus.

Don’t set the background!

That’s right. Our Online Tool or app will substitute your background with a perfect white background, so you don't have to worry about what's behind you.

Ensure you have appropriate lighting

A passport photo must have good lighting because, if there are shadows in the image, HM Passport Office may reject it. Remember, natural lighting creates the best results. So, stand in front of the window in the morning and take a picture. If natural light does not work, you can use a lamp.

Prepare yourself

Remember these rules:

  • Look straight at the camera, with your body facing forwards.
  • Ensure you have a neutral facial expression, with your mouth closed.
  • Keep your eyes open; with your pupils and irises fully visible.
  • Push your hair back so that it does not cover your face and eyes.
  • Remove head coverings unless for religious or medical reasons.
  • Ensure there are no shadows on your face, shoulders or in the background of the photo.
  • If you wear prescription glasses, remove them wherever possible, otherwise make sure they do not reflect light or create glare and that your eyes are visible.

Also, remember, do not:

  • Wear tinted glasses and sunglasses.
  • Wear headgear unless for religious or medical reasons 
  • Smile or grimace.
  • Allow shadows in the background of the photo, on your face or on your shoulders.
  • Have hair that covers your face or eyes.
  • Wear jewellery that covers your face or causes reflections.
  • Use Photoshop - the photo must remain unaltered by computer software.

Use the right online tool

After taking or uploading your photo to our online tool or app, the program’s AI will verify the image’s compliance with the UK passport photo specifications. If everything is ok, it will remove the background and send your photo to the email address you have provided. It’s as easy as that!

How long does the online application for a British passport take?

Normally, it will take around 6 weeks to receive your first UK passport, but the process can take longer. You should allow up to 10 weeks, wherever possible. You must provide all of the information required in the passport application, including supporting documentation to avoid unnecessary delays. 

All other application types, such as renewing a passport or applying for a child passport should take slightly less time. Visit the UK government website for current processing times.

Should you need your passport urgently, the application should be made through the 1 Week Fast Track or Online Premium services! It is also possible to save money - £9.50 - by completing a passport application online and using a digital photo.

How to submit your digital photo with your passport application.

  1. Firstly, take a photo of the person who is applying for a passport. Then, you need to log into the UK government website.
  2. Go to the page titled “ Apply online for a UK passport" and click on the “start now” button. 
  3. In the "Get a digital photo” section, pick the "I’ll take or upload a digital photo" option and click the Continue button.
  4. You’re now ready to upload your digital image.
  5. You should receive a comment about your photo, confirming that it has been checked for any common errors. After that notification, it is time to click the "Use This Photo" button.
  6. That’s it! The photo has been submitted. You can then proceed with the rest of the application form.

Passport photo application - UK

It is best to validate your digital passport photo prior to submission to ensure it meets the UK passport photo specification. For this purpose, use our British Passport passport photo online tool app. This allows you to check the photo online. 

Just attach the file and the application will check its compliance with the requirements for the UK passport online application (background, GB passport photo size, centring, lighting etc.)

Last update: 03/06/2023

About the document

A British passport allows you to travel between countries in accordance with their visa requirements and serves as proof of your nationality and identity. 

You can now apply for or renew your UK passport online via the UK government website. The entire process— completing the application form, submitting a digital passport photo and paying the fees can be completed online without leaving your home. 

However, in exceptional circumstances, you may be asked to attend an interview in person. A UK adult passport lasts for 10 years before expiring.

Passport application forms are available from your local post office branch if you prefer to apply by post. You can also use the Post Office’s “Check and Send” service to get some extra peace of mind. 

Who can apply?

You can apply for or renew a British passport online if you’re a British national (there are different types of British nationality) and you’re aged 16 or over (or you will be in 3 weeks). 

Types of British nationality

You are able to apply for a British passport application if you are a:

  • British citizen
  • British overseas territories citizen
  • British overseas citizen
  • British subject
  • British national (overseas)
  • British protected person

Being a British national does not guarantee you a passport. For example, you may not get a new passport if you are suspected of a serious crime and are subject to an arrest warrant. If you still have a valid child passport, but you are over 18, you can still use it until it’s expiration date.

British passport application

In order to apply for a UK Passport online you will need:

  • a digital, colour photo of you (black and white photos aren’t allowed) or a device that takes digital photos and someone to take your photo,
  • a countersignatory (someone who can confirm your identity) - for first passports, to replace lost, stolen or damaged passports or if your appearance has changed dramatically.
  • supporting documents,
  • a credit or debit card.

Supporting documents

Whether you plan to apply online or not, you will still need to present original supporting documents to the passport authorities. These documents will be returned to you automatically, separate from your new passport. The way you’ll receive them will depend on how you chose to apply for your new passport. The list of possible documents includes:

  • proof of being a British citizen (e.g. birth certificate or adoption certificate),
  • certificate of naturalization or registration (if applicable),
  • your current passport (if you are renewing or replacing your passport),
  • your valid foreign passport (if applicable),
  • evidence of a claim to British nationality through a parent (if applicable).

When you apply for your passport online, you will be advised which documents you need to provide.

British passport online fees

Getting an adult British passport online costs £75.50, if you want a standard 34-page book, and £85.50 if you want a 50-page frequent traveller passport. Child passports cost £49. Anyone born on or before 2 September 1929 can get their passport for free. You will need to present card information to pay for your application.

Frequently Asked Questions FAQ

What colour should I not wear for a passport photo?

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You should try to avoid wearing black or white. These colours can disturb the contrast between the photographed figure and the background.

Where to take a photo for passport?

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Applicants can get a passport photo from a photo booth, a retail store, a professional photo studio, or take it themselves. With Passport Photo Online, it’s possible to get a perfect picture anywhere and check passport photo requirements compliance on any modern smartphone.

How many passport photos do I need?

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For UK digital passport photo, you only need one digital photo, which you can take with your phone according to the instructions. During the photo session, take a few shots and choose the one that has the best chance of being accepted by HM Passport Office.

Yes, as long as the photo still reflects your natural look.

Wear all colours except white. It is also not good to put on a black blouse because it disturbs the contrast between the photographed figure and the background. The white colour of the clothes will in turn make it possible for you to get the 'floating head' effect and also have a great contrast necessary for a UK passport photo.

To take a digital UK passport photo you can use your phone and our online document photo program. Take photos according to the guidelines or ask a family member for help. After taking a photo, attach it using our website or app. Then the program will remove the background and crop the image to the correct UK passport photo size. When the image is ready, you will receive a digital photo file by email.

Yes, you can wear makeup on a UK digital passport photo. We recommend that you wear natural makeup, so that the photo shows your true appearance and that there are no problems with identifying you during passport control.

By using our app and our online tool, you don't need to crop your photo before uploading it. Our program will automatically crop the photo to fit the UK passport photo requirements.

Yes, as long as it is a delicate line. Makeup should be subtle and one that best reflects the way you make up on a daily basis. Do not use heavy makeup on your face, and do not use a shiny lipstick and lip gloss on your lips.

When taking a passport photo for a baby or young child, they must be the only one in the picture and must not be sucking on dummies or holding toys. The UK passport service does not require children of 6 years old or younger to be looking directly at the camera and children under 1 don’t need to have their eyes open. You are allowed to support their head with your hand, but your hand must be kept out of sight, if possible. If it’s easier, you are allowed to take a photo or your baby lying on a light coloured sheet.

The final aesthetic effect of the photo is influenced by the type of lens and the distance between you and the camera, which can change the perspective. Bad lighting and poorly chosen makeup can also cause problems. Our digital online photo tool and app allow you to retake your photo as many times as you like, so you will always be happy with the end result.

Yes, as long as the turtleneck or scarf does not cover any part of your face. However, remember that the entire outline of the jaw must be visible in the photo, so consider wearing a different type of top piece.

The size of the British passport photo is 35 x 45 mm (3.5 x 4.5 cm). If you wish to upload a photo to a digital application, the online passport application photo should measure 900 x 1200 pixels.

It is preferable to wear colours other than black or white. White can blur the contrast between the figure in the photo and the background. As a result, the photo may no longer be biometric and may be rejected by HM Passport Office. Equally, black clothing can create an unnatural contrast within the image.

No, you must not smile, even slightly. Your face must have a neutral expression, your mouth must be closed and eyes open. If you smile, your entire application may be rejected, forcing you to start from scratch.

Yes you can, using our British Passport Digital Photo Online tool or app. A digital photo for a British passport must have a plain, light coloured background. White is preferable, but cream or light grey is acceptable.

If you use our online tool or app, you don't need to worry about the background as the software will amend it automatically. It will also crop the image to the correct size. However, the correct pose is very important. Position yourself directly in front of the camera and look straight at the lens. Assume a neutral expression, with your mouth closed and your eyes open. Remove head coverings, unless for religious or medical reasons. Take off glasses, wherever possible. If not, ensure that your eyes are clearly visible, with no reflections or glare. You cannot wear sunglasses or tinted glasses. Make sure that nothing is covering your face (e.g. hair, large earrings).

You have plenty of options. You can go to a professional photography studio, use a photobooth that helps taking passport photos or simply download a mobile app that will reframe your photo transforming it into a professional passport photo. We would encourage you to use the mobile app - it is cheaper and faster and you can retake a photo if you don’t like it.

The easiest way to get a UK digital passport photo is to use a passport photo maker. All you will have to do is to upload a selfie and the cropped and reframed photo will appear within just a few seconds. You can also use our mobile passport photo cropping tool.

 

Yes, you can wear makeup in a UK digital passport photo. We recommend that you wear natural makeup, so that the photo shows your true appearance and there are no problems identifying you at passport control. Avoid using lip gloss or other shiny makeup.

You should ask a friend or family member to take the photo from approximately 3 feet away. You need to ensure you are using a neutral background, white or off-white. You should also follow all of the other passport photo rules.

Consider wearing a colour other than black. Black colour on a strongly white background will stand out too much, which may distort the natural contrast of the photo.

The easiest way to get a UK digital passport photo is to use our British Passport Digital Photo Online tool or our app. All you have to do is upload a recent photo from your photo gallery or take a new one and the cropped and reframed photo will appear within just a few seconds.

You can use a variety of tools and applications, but the easiest way is to have it done automatically. Our online digital photo tool or professional mobile app will generate a passport size photo with a uniform background of the right colour in seconds.