🇬🇧 UK Visa Photos: Size, Background & Latest Requirements
UK visa photo specifications compiled from official guidance, with common mistakes and a free tool to make a compliant photo. Updated 10/2026.
UK standard photos are 3.5×4.5 cm, on a light grey or cream background, head height 29–34 mm, no glasses, neutral expression. Many UK visa applicants have their photo taken at the application centre.
UK visa photo specifications
| Photo size | 3,5 × 4,5 cm |
|---|---|
| Head height | 29–34 mm, from chin to top of head |
| Background color | Plain light grey or cream |
| When taken | Taken within 1 month (for UK passport photos) |
| Glasses | No glasses |
| Note | Many UK visa applicants have biometric photos taken on-site at the application centre — check your appointment letter |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed, no shadows on the face or background |
Get it right the first time
Do
- Look straight into the lens, shoulders level
- Even lighting on both sides of the face, no shadows
- Eyes clearly open, mouth closed
- Sharp photo, no filters, no skin smoothing
Common reasons for rejection
- Using pure white instead of light grey/cream
- Wearing glasses
- Shadows behind the head
- Head too large (over 34 mm)
FAQ
What background color do UK visa photos use?
A plain light grey or cream background — unlike the white background for US and Korean visas.
Do I need to bring a photo when applying for a UK visa?
Biometric photos are usually taken at the application centre when your fingerprints are collected. Read the instructions in your appointment letter carefully.
What is the UK standard photo size?
3.5×4.5 cm, with a head height of 29–34 mm from chin to top of head.
Can I make a UK visa photo online?
Yes. K-BLACK's free tool automatically removes the background, aligns the head to the UK visa standard and exports a 300 dpi print file. For important applications, we recommend shooting at the studio to ensure the lighting and pose meet the standard.
Other countries' photo standards
Sources: GOV.UK – Photos for passports. Requirements may change — please check the latest guidance from the receiving authority before submitting.