Applying for a passport can be a straightforward process, but ensuring you meet all the requirements, especially for your passport photos, is crucial to avoid delays. One of the most fundamental aspects is getting the photo size right. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about passport photo sizes to ensure your application goes smoothly.
Understanding Passport Photo Dimensions: The Essentials
The standard size for a passport photo is universally recognized as 45 millimeters (mm) high by 35mm wide. This dimension is widely adopted, including being the standard size used in photo booths in the UK. It’s important to note that your passport photos must not be a cut-down version of a larger picture; they need to be specifically printed to this precise size. If you are using a photo booth outside of the UK, it’s always wise to double-check that it can produce photos with these exact measurements.
Example of passport photo dimensions with head size outline
Image Size Matters: Head Height
Within the 45mm x 35mm photo, the image of your face is also subject to specific size regulations. The measurement from the crown of your head to your chin must be between 29mm and 34mm. This ensures that your face is appropriately proportioned within the photograph, making it easy for passport officials to identify you.
Quality and Specifications for Printed Passport Photos
Beyond the size, the quality of your printed photos is equally important. To be acceptable, your passport photos must adhere to the following standards:
- Professional Print Quality: Photos should be printed to a professional standard to ensure clarity and longevity.
- Sharp and In Focus: The image must be clear and in focus, not blurry or pixelated.
- Color and Paper: Photos must be in color and printed on plain white photographic paper with no border.
- Condition: The photos should be free from creases, tears, and any markings on either side (unless for official countersigning).
- Unmodified Images: Photos should not be altered by computer software to change your appearance in any way.
What Your Passport Photo Must Clearly Show
The content of your passport photo is strictly regulated to ensure proper identification. Here’s what your photo needs to capture:
- Close-up: The photo must be a close-up of your full head and upper shoulders.
- Solo Subject: No other objects or people should be in the photo with you.
- Background: The background must be plain cream or light grey to provide a clear contrast with your face.
- No Red Eye: Ensure there is no ‘red eye’ effect in the photo.
In terms of your pose and expression, the requirements are also detailed:
- Facing Forward: You must be facing directly forward and looking straight at the camera.
- Neutral Expression: Maintain a plain expression with your mouth closed.
- Eyes Visible: Your eyes must be open and clearly visible, with no hair obstructing them.
- No Head Coverings: Head coverings are not permitted unless they are for religious or medical reasons.
- Face Uncovered: Nothing should cover your face.
- No Shadows: There should be no shadows on your face or in the background behind you.
Regarding glasses, it’s generally advised not to wear them in your passport photo unless absolutely necessary. If glasses are required for medical reasons, they must not be sunglasses or tinted, and you must ensure that your eyes are not obscured by the frames, glare, reflection, or shadows.
Adult wearing glasses in passport photo complying with guidelines
Specific Guidelines for Babies and Children’s Photos
Taking passport photos of babies and young children has some relaxed rules, acknowledging the challenges involved:
- Child Alone: Children must be photographed on their own, with no adults or other children in the frame.
- No Toys or Dummies: Babies should not be holding toys or using dummies (pacifiers) in their photos.
- Expression and Gaze (Under 6s): Children under 6 years old are not required to look directly at the camera or have a plain expression.
- Eyes Open (Under 1s): Babies under one year old do not need to have their eyes open. You can support their head with your hand, provided your hand is not visible in the photo.
Submitting Your Printed Photos
When you are submitting a paper passport application, remember these final points for your printed photos:
- Separate Photos: Ensure your two identical photos are separated from each other.
- Loose Photos: Leave the photos loose; do not attach them to your application form in any way.
By adhering to these guidelines regarding “What Size Photo Is Passport” and all other specifications, you can confidently submit your application and avoid any unnecessary delays. Always double-check the latest official passport photo requirements from your country’s passport authority to ensure full compliance.
