Printed Photos for Post Applications
Paper Applications
Printed photo requirements for passport applications submitted by post using paper forms. All specifications are based on official GOV.UK guidelines.
Quick size reference
| Specification | Official requirement |
|---|---|
| Print size | 35 × 45 mm |
| Head height | 29–34 mm (crown to chin) |
| Quantity | 2 identical printed photos |
| Background | Plain cream or light grey |
Always confirm the latest rules on the official government site before you submit.
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Printing passport photos at home
Can I print my own passport photo at home?
Many countries allow home printing if the photo meets official size, paper, and quality rules. Use matte photo paper and check head size against the diagram above before submitting.
Will a home-printed photo be accepted?
Final acceptance depends on your authority's current standards, print quality, background, and expression. Some applications require professional prints—always read the latest official guidance.
What size should I print?
Use the official dimensions in the table above. Our free online cropper exports the correct aspect ratio so you can print at the right size.
Official Photo Examples
Reference photos from GOV.UK official guidance for printed passport photos
Photo Size and Layout Guide
Official size and layout requirements (35×45mm)
Photo Quality Examples
Official quality and content requirements
Printed Photo Requirements
Physical specifications for paper passport applications
Physical Requirements:
- • Quantity: 2 identical printed photos required
- • Size: 35mm wide × 45mm high (standard UK photo booth size)
- • Image Size: Head from crown to chin: 29mm-34mm high
- • Quality: Printed to professional standard
- • Paper: Plain white photographic paper with no border
- • Condition: No creases or tears
- • Markings: Unmarked on both sides (unless countersigned)
- • Alteration: No computer software alterations
Photo Content:
- • Background: Plain cream or light grey
- • Composition: Close-up of full head and upper shoulders
- • Objects: No other objects or people
- • Lighting: Clear contrast to background, no shadows
- • Expression: Plain expression, mouth closed
- • Eyes: Open and clearly visible
- • Hair: Not covering eyes
- • Red Eye: No red eye effect
Available Photo Format
UK Passport (35x45mm)
UK passport photo requirements - 35x45mm format for paper applications
Dimensions:
35 × 45 mm
413 × 531 px
Head Height:
29-34 mm
64-76% of photo height
Key Requirements:
- • Face forward, looking straight at camera
- • Neutral expression, mouth closed
- • Eyes open and clearly visible
- • Plain light-colored background
- • No shadows on face or behind you
- • No glasses (unless medically necessary)
Example Photo:
UK Passport Photo Size Guide — Official GOV.UK guidance
What Your Photo Must Show
- • Face forward and looking straight at the camera
- • Neutral expression with mouth closed
- • Eyes open and clearly visible
- • No hair covering your eyes
- • No head covering (unless for religious or medical reasons)
- • No shadows on your face or behind you
- • Plain cream or light grey background
- • No other objects or people in the photo
- • No red eye effect
Glasses and Special Requirements
Glasses:
- • Do not wear glasses unless medically necessary
- • If you must wear glasses, they cannot be sunglasses or tinted
- • Ensure your eyes are not covered by frames
- • No glare, reflection, or shadow on your eyes
Children and Babies:
- • Children must be on their own in the picture
- • Babies must not be holding toys or using dummies
- • Children under 6 don't need to look directly at camera
- • Children under 6 don't need to have a plain expression
- • Babies under 1 don't need to have eyes open
- • You can support baby's head with your hand, but hand must not be visible
Application Process
How to submit your paper application with printed photos
Photo Submission:
- • Photos must be separated from each other
- • Leave photos loose, not attached to application form
- • Do not staple or glue photos to forms
- • Ensure photos are clearly identifiable
Important Notes:
- • Photos must be taken within the last month
- • Use professional photo booth or photographer
- • Keep spare copies for your records
- • Follow all size and quality requirements
- • Your application will be delayed if photos don't meet rules
Ready to Create Your UK Passport Photo?
Use our free online passport photo tool to create compliant photos that meet all UK requirements
Smart Cropping
Automatic head positioning and size adjustment
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Official Source
For the most up-to-date and complete information, refer to the official source: