GOV.UK sets a minimum pixel size; it does not ask you to convert the digital file to 45×35mm.
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Online application guide · October 2026
Digital passport photos UK: file size, pixels and photo rules
For an online UK passport application you need a digital photo—not a 45×35mm print. Here are the current technical and visual rules, plus what to check before upload.
Technical requirements
Pixels and file size are only the first check.
The file needs to sit within the current upload-size range.
A technically valid file can still fail if the face, lighting or background is unsuitable.
Do not crop it yourself: when using a photo taken on your own device, GOV.UK says to include the head, shoulders and upper body. The application handles cropping.
How to take the photo
Start with a clean original photo rather than trying to repair it later.
Use a plain light background
No texture, patterns or objects behind you.
Use balanced light
Avoid shadows on the face or wall, glare and red-eye.
Keep the photo unedited
No filters, face retouching, background replacement or software “correction”.
Digital image vs photo code
A JPEG and a passport photo code are different outputs.
A digital image is the photograph file. A photo code is a short secure reference that lets the online passport application retrieve a hosted digital photograph. Choose the product your application route actually needs.
Take it from your phone
Use the web flow or open our iOS/Android app. Keep the source photo natural and follow the same GOV.UK rules.
FAQs
Digital passport photo questions.
What size should a UK digital passport photo be?
At least 600 pixels wide by 750 pixels tall, with a file size from 50KB to 10MB.
Does a digital passport photo need to be 35×45mm?
No. 45×35mm is the printed-photo size. Online digital photos use pixel and file-size requirements.
Can I edit the background?
No. GOV.UK requires the digital photograph to be unedited. Retake it against a suitable plain light-coloured background.
Can I take the digital photo on my phone?
Yes. GOV.UK allows a digital photo taken using your own device, with someone else helping to take it during the application.
Ready to check the file?