UK BNO Passport Photo

BNO passport photos must meet these specifications: - File size between 50KB–10MB, dimensions at least 600px wide × 750px high - Plain light-colored background with no shadows or objects - Full-face view with eyes open, neutral expression, and no headwear (hair must not obscure eyes) - Glasses permitted if non-reflective and eyes fully visible - Include head, shoulders, and upper body; no self-cropping required

The British National (Overseas) passport, commonly known as the BN(O) passport, is a form of British passport issued to individuals who were granted British National (Overseas) status before the 1997 handover of Hong Kong to China. While it is recognized as a British passport, it does not confer the same rights as a full British Citizen passport. BN(O) passport holders are not automatically entitled to the full range of privileges granted to British citizens, such as the right to live and work in the UK, though recent changes have allowed BN(O) passport holders and their family members to apply for a specific visa route for residency in the UK.

When submitting a passport photo in the UK, it is crucial to adhere to the following specifications: 1. Pose and Expression: Your face should be clearly visible, with a neutral expression. You must be facing the camera directly, with both eyes open and your mouth closed. A smile is acceptable as long as it remains natural and subtle. 2. Head and Hair: Your head should be centered in the frame with no shadows or reflections obscuring your face. Hair must not cover your eyes or face, and if you have long hair, it should be pulled back to ensure your full face is visible. 3. Background: The background must be plain and light-colored, ideally white or light grey, with no patterns, textures, or objects visible behind you. 4. Headwear: Head coverings for religious or medical reasons are allowed, but they must not obscure any part of your face. The facial features from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead, and both sides of your face, should remain visible. 5. Accessories and Glasses: Glasses should not be worn unless necessary for medical reasons. If you wear glasses, ensure there is no reflection or glare, and the lenses should not obscure your eyes. Other accessories, such as hats or scarves, should be avoided unless they are worn for religious or medical reasons.

A “fair” passport photo may be accepted by the HM Passport Office, but it is important to note that the quality of the photo is a key factor in determining its acceptance. The photo should meet the official UK passport photo requirements, including clarity, proper lighting, and a neutral expression. While photos that are deemed “fair” in quality could be accepted, it’s always advisable to submit a photo that fully complies with the guidelines to avoid delays or rejections. To ensure your photo meets all necessary standards, we recommend following the detailed specifications provided by the UK government website or consulting a professional photo service.

A British National (Overseas) passport, commonly known as a BNO passport, allows holders to live, work, and study in the United Kingdom, subject to the specific immigration rules and requirements that apply. BNO passport holders are eligible for certain rights under UK law, but they do not have the same rights to settle or access welfare benefits as full British citizens. However, recent changes to UK immigration law have introduced a special visa route for BNO passport holders, enabling them to apply for settled or pre-settled status in the UK. For more details on the rights and options available to BNO passport holders, you can visit the UK government’s official page: https://www.gov.uk/types-of-british-nationality/british-national-overseas.

No, the British National (Overseas) or BNO passport is not an EU passport. The United Kingdom, including holders of the BNO passport, formally ceased to be a member of the European Union on January 31, 2020, following Brexit. As a result, UK passport holders, including those with a BNO, are no longer considered citizens of the EU or the European Economic Area (EEA). Although BNO passport holders may have certain rights, such as the ability to live and work in the UK or specific visa privileges in Hong Kong, it does not grant the same rights or privileges as an EU passport.