UK Passport Photo Size 2026: Official Pixel & MM Guide

Whether you are applying online or using a paper form, your photo must meet exact mathematical measurements to be accepted by the HM Passport Office (HMPO). As of May 2026, the rules for digital uploads and printed photos are different, and "trimming" a larger photo is the fastest way to get a rejection.

1. Digital Passport Photo Size (Online Applications)

Most UK applications (over 80%) are now done online. For these, you do not need to worry about millimeters—you need to focus on pixels and file integrity.

• Width and Height: Your photo must be at least 600 pixels wide and 750 pixels tall.

• File Size: The image file must be between 50KB and 10MB.

• Format: Only JPG or JPEG files are accepted.

• Framing: The digital photo must show your full head, shoulders, and upper body. Do not crop it too tightly; the HMPO software will automatically crop the image to the correct biometric ratio during the upload process.

2. Printed Passport Photo Size (Paper Applications)

If you are using a paper application form, you must provide two identical printed photos that meet these precise dimensions:

• External Dimensions: Exactly 45mm high by 35mm wide.

• The "Crown to Chin" Rule: The most common reason for print rejection is the face size. Your head (from the crown of your head to the tip of your chin) must be between 29mm and 34mm high.

• Paper Quality: Photos must be printed on high-quality, medium/low gloss or matt photographic paper. Standard "printer paper" or cardstock will be rejected.

3. The 2026 "No Trimming" Warning

A critical rule for 2026 is that your photo must not be a "cut down" version of a larger picture.

• The Issue: If you take a wide-angle photo and crop it down to 35x45mm, the resolution drops. To a human eye, it looks fine, but the 2026 biometric AI sees "pixelation" and will fail the image for lack of clarity.

• The Fix: Have the photographer (or your friend) stand at the correct distance (1.5 meters) so the original image is already framed as a head-and-shoulders shot.

Summary Table: 2026 Requirements

Avoid the Technical Headache

Getting the 29mm–34mm head height perfect on a home printer is notoriously difficult. At [Passport Photo Digital], we handle the technical side for you. We provide a Digital Photo Code that is already formatted to the exact 2026 pixel and aspect ratio requirements, ensuring a 100% pass rate.