Document Photo Guide

UK digital passport photo requirements for an online application

This page covers the digital route only. Do not substitute the 45 x 35 mm printed-photo rule for an online upload, and do not use an editing workflow as a way to bypass the current GOV.UK photo instruction.

Quick Answer

What are the UK digital passport photo requirements?

For a UK online passport application, GOV.UK says the digital photo must be clear, in colour, unaltered by computer software, at least 600 by 750 pixels, and between 50 KB and 10 MB. It also needs a plain light-coloured background and a clear, front-facing view of the applicant.

Minimum pixels
600 x 750
File size
50 KB to 10 MB
Background
Plain light-coloured
Editing
No computer-software alteration

IDPhoto Pro creates photo files only. It does not generate IDs, passports, visas, or official documents.

Last reviewed
2026-08-02
Requirement source
Source link available
Scope
Photo file preparation

Scope and limits

What this guide can help with

This guide helps you prepare a photo file and identify risks that may need a retake or review. It does not replace the current receiving-authority rule or guarantee final acceptance.

Review official requirement source

Requirements

Typical requirements to review

  • Take a new photo within the last month
  • Use a clear, colour image at least 600 by 750 pixels and between 50 KB and 10 MB
  • Use a plain light-coloured background with no other people or objects
  • Face forward with eyes open and visible, a plain expression, and mouth closed
  • Do not alter the photo with computer software
  • Use the current GOV.UK instruction for the final application decision

How To

How to use this guide

  1. Read the current GOV.UK digital-photo rules before taking the photo.
  2. Take a current, clear, front-facing colour portrait against a plain light-coloured background.
  3. Check pixels, file size, face visibility, shadows, and background objects.
  4. Use the official online application flow for final upload and any crop handling.

Final check

Use the official process as the final authority

This page helps you understand the applicable rule. It does not replace the receiving authority's current capture, editing, or submission process. Before submitting, return to the official source linked above and follow its latest instruction.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Can I digitally edit a UK passport photo?

GOV.UK says that a digital passport photo must be unaltered by computer software. Follow the current official guidance rather than relying on an editing tool.

How recent must a UK digital passport photo be?

GOV.UK says it must have been taken in the last month. Check the current instruction before submission.

Photo preparation help

Solve common risks before you submit

Passport Photo Rejected: What to Fix

Start with the rejection notice and the receiving authority's current photo rules. Retake the image when you cannot clearly resolve framing, lighting, sharpness, background, or file-format issues. A photo app can help prepare the file, but it cannot determine final acceptance.

Read guide

Take a Passport Photo at Home With iPhone

Use a recent, unfiltered, front-facing portrait with even light, enough distance from the wall to reduce cast shadows, and the correct document preset before exporting. Check the current rule for your exact country and application channel before submitting.

Read guide

Can You Edit a Passport Photo Background?

Do not assume that digital background replacement or other edits are accepted. Check the current rule for the exact receiving authority. When the original image has unsuitable lighting or background, retaking a clean photo is the most conservative option.

Read guide

Passport Photo App vs Photo Shop

Use a photo app when you need privacy-conscious local preparation, multiple document sizes, a digital export, or a print layout from your own portrait. Use a photo shop when you need in-person help taking the portrait or the receiving workflow specifically requires a service provider. Neither option guarantees acceptance.

Read guide

Related guides

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