UK Visa Photo Requirements 2025

UK Visa Photo Specifications (UKVI)

Requirement	Specification
Photo size	45 × 35 mm (note: height × width)
Head height	29–34 mm from chin to crown
Background	Plain light grey or cream
Expression	Neutral, mouth closed
Photo age	Taken within last 6 months
Glasses	Not permitted
Quantity	Two identical photos

⚠️ Size note: UK visa photos are listed as 45×35mm (height × width) — equivalent to 35×45mm (width × height). Don't get confused by the reversed notation in some official documents.

Create a UKVI-Compliant Visa Photo

PassportSnap applies the correct UK visa photo dimensions and light grey background automatically.

Create Your UK Visa Photo

UK Visa vs UK Passport Photo

UK visa photo requirements are essentially the same as UK passport photo requirements — same dimensions (35×45mm), same light grey or cream background, same head sizing rules. If you have a recent UK passport photo, it can usually be used for visa applications too.

Common UK Visa Photo Mistakes

❌ White background instead of grey

UK visa photos require light grey or cream — not white. This is the most common mistake.

❌ Old photo

UKVI requires photos taken within the last 6 months to reflect your current appearance.

❌ Glasses

Glasses are not permitted in UK visa photos since 2018.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size is a UK visa photo?

UK visa photos must be 35 × 45 mm (or 45 × 35 mm as sometimes listed — same dimensions, different notation). The background must be light grey or cream.

Can I use my UK passport photo for a UK visa?

Yes — if it was taken within the last 6 months and meets all UKVI specifications, a UK passport photo can be used for visa applications.

What background color does a UK visa photo require?

A plain light grey or cream background — not white. This is a key difference from US and many other countries' photo requirements.