For years the only option was finding a photo booth to get the photos taken, but you now can provide a digital photo if you’re applying online for a new passport.
Here we’ll take you through the passport photo rules for both digital and print.
If you’re applying for a new passport using the paper form, you’ll need to include two identical photos with your application.
Showing just your head and shoulders, they’ll need to measure 45mm x 35mm – this is the standard size given in UK photo booths, so it’s still the easiest way to get prints.
You can’t cut photos down to size.
The passport office is strict on what the images must be like in terms of quality and how you’re presented.
For quality, the photos must be:
Your photos must show:
You have three options for getting a digital photograph to accompany your online application.
Quality-wise, the digital photo must be:
Your photos must show:
Thankfully, the rules aren’t as strict for little ones.
Like adults, children must be on their own in the photograph. You can support your baby’s head with your hand, but it can’t be visible.
Children under six don’t need to be looking directly at the camera or keep a plain expression, while children under one don’t have to have their eyes open.
They can’t hold toys or use a dummy in the photos.