Free UK Passport Photo Maker
Use our free AI maker to snap and generate a compliant UK Passport photo. Exact 35x45mm (1.4x1.8 in) dimensions with a light grey background at 300 DPI.
Requirements Summary
Dimensions
35 x 45 mm
1.4 x 1.8 inches
Resolution
300 DPI
Min 413x531px
Background
Light grey
Head Size
64% — 76%
of photo height
Eye Position
55%
from bottom
Official Requirements
- Photo must be taken within the last month
- Plain cream or light grey background, no shadows
- Printed on plain white photographic paper to professional standard
- Clear and in focus, colour photo, no border
- Neutral expression, mouth closed
- Eyes open and visible — no hair covering eyes
- Face forward, looking directly at camera
- No glasses (except where medically necessary — no sunglasses or tinted lenses)
- No head coverings unless for religious or medical reasons
- Head from crown to chin must measure 29–34 mm
- Photo dimensions: 45 mm high × 35 mm wide
- Two identical photos required for paper applications
- No digital alterations; no other people or objects in frame
- Digital photo minimum: 600 × 750 pixels, 50 KB – 10 MB
Apply officially
Once your photo is ready, submit your application via the official United Kingdom government portal.
Open official portal ↗Frequently Asked Questions
What size is a UK passport photo?
A UK passport photo is 35×45 mm — the same dimensions used for UK visa applications and the UK driving licence. The face from crown to chin must measure 29–34 mm. Digital uploads via the online passport renewal service must be at least 600×750 pixels, JPEG, 50 KB – 10 MB.
How recent must a UK passport photo be?
Within the last 1 month — the UK applies a stricter rule than most countries (most allow 6 months). HM Passport Office requires fresh photos to ensure facial recognition matches at e-gates. Submitting an older photo can trigger rejection.
Why does the UK require light grey or cream — not pure white?
HM Passport Office requires plain cream or light grey because pure white can wash out the facial outline at biometric scanners and reduce contrast. Light grey or cream provides better edge detection for facial recognition. White-background photos are commonly rejected by the UK passport renewal system.
Can I wear glasses in a UK passport photo?
No. HM Passport Office banned eyeglasses from passport photos, including prescription glasses. Sunglasses or tinted lenses are never accepted. Medical-necessity exceptions require a doctor's letter.
Where can I get a UK passport photo taken?
Boots, Snappy Snaps, Max Spielmann, and Tesco photo all take UK-spec photos for £8–£15. Photo booths in train stations are reliable for digital code-based submissions. Outside the UK, format the 35×45 mm spec yourself with light grey background.
Can I use my UK passport photo for the DVLA driving licence application?
Yes — the UK passport, driving licence, and visa all share the same 35×45 mm photo spec with the same rules (light grey background, no glasses, neutral expression). One photo serves all three.
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Pro Tips
- Use natural, even lighting
- Keep a neutral expression
- Look directly into the lens
- Remove glasses and hats
