Country guide · 🇬🇧 UK · Last verified: February 2025

UK Visa Photo Requirements

Official photo specifications for UK Visa — size, background, head position, and submission format. Verified against official government source.

Written by the PixID.studio compliance team · February 2025

Verified against official government source, February 2025. Each requirement is automatically checked when you create your photo with PixID.

Size

35x45 mm

Background

White or light grey background

Expression

Neutral expression, mouth closed

Ears

Both ears visible

Head covering

No head covering unless for religious reasons

Recency

Recent photo (within 6 months)

Resolution

300 DPI minimum

Glasses

Not allowed

Medical exception only

Photos required

2 identical

Background and lighting

The background must be white or light grey, uniform and completely shadow-free. Requirements:

Uniform colour — no gradients, patterns, or textures
No shadows cast on the background or on the face
Evenly lit — no dark spots or bright patches
No other people or objects visible in the frame

Avoid wearing clothing that matches the background colour, as it can blend in and cause rejection.

Expression and appearance

Expression: Neutral expression, mouth closed. Mouth closed, no smiling.
Eyes: both open, looking directly at the camera. No red-eye or glare.
Ears: Both ears visible must be visible.
Glasses: not permitted. Sunglasses and tinted lenses always prohibited.
Head covering: No head covering unless for religious reasons. Full face must be visible with no shadows.
Hair: must not cover the eyes or obscure facial features.
Clothing: everyday attire. Uniforms not permitted.

Common rejection reasons

Wrong background — must be white or light grey. Any deviation causes rejection.
Glasses — not permitted unless medically documented.
Shadows — on the face or background from poor lighting.
Head size incorrect — face must fill 70–80% of the frame.
Non-neutral expression — smile, raised eyebrows, or open mouth.
Photo too old — must be taken within Recent photo (within 6 months).
Low resolution or blur — minimum 300 DPI minimum for print submissions.
Digital retouching — beauty filters or skin smoothing cause rejection.

Verified against official government source · All checks automated

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Frequently asked questions

What are the UK Visa photo requirements?

UK Visa photos must be 35x45 mm, background white or light grey. Neutral expression, both eyes open. Photo within 6 months. Min 300 DPI. Source: official government source.

What size is a UK Visa photo?

The required size is 35x45 mm. The face should occupy 70–80% of the photo area with both ears visible and a neutral expression.

What background is required for a UK Visa photo?

The background must be white or light grey, uniform and shadow-free. No patterns, textures, or objects.

Can I wear glasses in a UK Visa photo?

No. Glasses are generally not permitted. Prescription glasses may be allowed with a medical certificate — check official government source.

How recent must a UK Visa photo be?

The photo must have been taken within 6 months and reflect your current appearance.

Can I create a UK Visa photo online?

Yes. PixID creates compliant UK Visa photos: select your document, upload a photo, and get a ready-to-use file in minutes. $4.99, 100% money-back guarantee if rejected.