🇬🇧 UK Passport Photo — Free Online Maker
Create an HM Passport Office compliant UK passport photo online. 35×45mm, plain light background, neutral expression — all verified automatically. Free, instant, no signup.
UK Passport Photo Requirements
HM Passport Office has specific digital and printed photo requirements. Here’s the full specification:
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Photo Size | 35 mm wide × 45 mm high |
| Head Size | 29–34 mm from chin to crown |
| Background | Plain cream or light grey (avoid pure white) |
| Recency | Taken within the last 1 month |
| Expression | Neutral — no smiling, mouth closed, eyes open |
| Glasses | Not allowed unless medically necessary (with supporting evidence) |
| Head Coverings | Only for religious or medical reasons, full face must be visible |
| Resolution / Quality | Clear, sharp, in focus, no red-eye, no flash reflection |
| Lighting | Even lighting, no shadows on face or background |
Correct vs. Incorrect Examples
✅ Correct
[Correct UK Passport Photo
35×45mm, cream background,
neutral expression,
no glasses]
35×45mm, cream background,
neutral expression,
no glasses]
- Plain cream or light grey background
- Face centered, eyes visible
- Neutral expression, no smile
- No glasses or head coverings
❌ Incorrect
[Incorrect Photo
— DO NOT USE —
smiling, glasses on,
dark background]
— DO NOT USE —
smiling, glasses on,
dark background]
- Smiling (rejected by HMPO)
- Wearing glasses
- Dark or patterned background
- Head too small or too large
Create Your UK Passport Photo Now
SnapItID automatically crops to 35×45mm and checks against HM Passport Office rules. Free, secure, instant.
Create Your UK Photo NowFrequently Asked Questions
What size is a UK passport photo?
A UK passport photo must be exactly 35 mm wide by 45 mm high. Your head from chin to crown must measure between 29 mm and 34 mm, and your face must fill roughly 70–80% of the frame.
What background does a UK passport photo need?
HM Passport Office requires a plain, light-coloured background — cream or light grey is recommended. Avoid pure white as it can cause contrast issues. The background must be free of patterns, objects, and shadows.
Can I smile in my UK passport photo?
No. The UK has one of the strictest expression requirements — you must have a completely neutral expression with your mouth closed. Smiling, even slightly, can cause your photo to be rejected.
How recent must my UK passport photo be?
Your photo must be taken within the last month (not 6 months like the US). It must be a true likeness of your current appearance. If your appearance changes, you need a new photo.
Can I submit a digital UK passport photo online?
Yes. HM Passport Office now accepts digital photos for online applications. Your digital photo must meet the same standards as printed ones. SnapItID prepares your photo in the correct digital format — free and instantly.