Applying for a passport can be a straightforward process, but ensuring your passport photos meet the specific size requirements is crucial to avoid delays. Whether you are applying for a passport for the first time, renewing an existing one, or applying for a passport for your child, understanding the correct passport photo dimensions is essential. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about passport photo sizes, ensuring your application process is as smooth as possible.
Understanding Standard Passport Photo Dimensions
The standard size for a passport photo is universally recognized and specifically designed for identification purposes. Incorrectly sized photos are a common reason for passport application rejection, so getting it right the first time saves time and hassle.
Passport Photo Size in Millimeters and Inches
The standard passport photo size is 45 millimeters (mm) in height by 35 millimeters (mm) in width. This is equivalent to approximately 1.77 inches high by 1.38 inches wide. These dimensions are crucial whether you are printing your photos or submitting them digitally.
Printed Passport Photo Size Requirements
For printed passport photos, it’s vital to adhere to the 45mm x 35mm dimension. Specifically:
- Photo Dimensions: The photo itself must measure exactly 45mm tall and 35mm wide. This is the size commonly produced by photo booths, particularly in the UK, which are designed to meet international passport photo standards.
- No Cropped Photos: Do not attempt to cut down a larger photo to meet these dimensions. Passport photos must be full, original prints of the specified size.
If you are using a photo booth outside of the UK, it’s always advisable to confirm that it can produce photos that meet the 45mm x 35mm requirement.
Image Size within the Passport Photo
Beyond the overall photo size, there are also specific requirements for the size of your face within the photograph.
- Head Size: The image of your head, measured from the crown to the chin, must be between 29mm and 34mm high. This ensures that your face is appropriately sized and prominent within the photo for clear identification.
Passport photo dimensions outline demonstrating head size requirements
Key Requirements for Passport Photo Quality and Content
Size is just one aspect of passport photo compliance. The quality and content of your photos are equally important. Here are essential guidelines to follow:
- Professional Print Quality: Photos must be printed to a professional standard to ensure clarity and longevity.
- Clarity and Focus: Photos must be sharp, clear, and in focus to allow for easy identification.
- Color and Paper: Photos must be in color and printed on plain white photographic paper with no borders.
- Condition: Photos should be free from creases, tears, and any markings on either side (unless a countersignature is required).
- No Digital Alteration: Photos must not be digitally altered or enhanced by computer software.
Furthermore, the content of the photo must adhere to strict guidelines:
- Head and Shoulders: The photo should be a close-up of your full head and upper shoulders, similar to a portrait.
- No Obstructions: The photo should not contain any other objects, people, or distracting elements.
- Background: The background must be plain cream or light grey to provide sufficient contrast with your face.
- Contrast: Ensure your face is in clear contrast to the background.
- No Red Eye: Avoid red-eye effect in the photo.
Regarding your appearance in the photo:
- Facing Forward: You must face directly forward and look straight at the camera.
- Expression: Maintain a plain expression with your mouth closed.
- Eyes Visible: Your eyes must be open and clearly visible, with no hair obstructing them.
- Head Coverings: Head coverings are not permitted unless worn for religious or medical reasons.
- Face Coverings: Nothing should cover your face.
- Shadows: Ensure there are no shadows on your face or in the background behind you.
Glasses are generally discouraged unless medically necessary. If you must wear glasses, they cannot be sunglasses or tinted, and they must not obscure your eyes due to frames, glare, reflection, or shadows.
Example of acceptable passport photo showing pose and framing
Specific Guidelines for Babies and Children’s Passport Photos
Taking passport photos of babies and young children requires extra consideration and leniency in some areas.
- Solo Photo: Children must be photographed alone; no other person should be in the picture. Babies should not hold toys or use pacifiers (dummies).
- Relaxed Expression for Young Children: Children under 6 years old are not required to look directly at the camera or have a plain expression.
- Eyes Open for Babies (If Possible): Babies under one year old are not required to have their eyes open. You can support their head with your hand, but your hand must not be visible in the photo.
Submitting Your Passport Photos
When submitting your passport application with printed photos, remember these final points:
- Separate Photos: Photos must be submitted separately, not attached to each other.
- Loose Photos: Do not attach or staple photos to the application form; they should be loose in the envelope.
By adhering to these guidelines regarding passport photo size and requirements, you can ensure your application is processed without unnecessary delays. Taking the time to get your photos right is a small effort that can save significant time and potential frustration.
