What size are the photos for the UK visa?
UK visa applications require two identical photos sized 45mm x 35mm (HxW). Ensure they meet UK standards: unedited, full-face capture with a plain light-gray or cream background, and printed on high-quality photo paper.
Do I need photos for UK visa appointment?
No, physical passport photos are not required for UK visa appointments. Your biometric information (fingerprints and a digital photo) will be captured at the Visa Application Centre during your appointment. This streamlined process ensures compliance with UKVI standards, and the digital photo taken will be used directly for your visa documentation.
Can you smile in UK visa photo?
UK visa photos require a neutral expression (no smiling or frowning) with eyes fully open, clearly visible, and free from red-eye or flash glare. Keep your mouth closed, face the camera directly, and ensure both edges of your face are fully visible. The photo must show a front-view of your head and shoulders, centered and squared to the camera.
Is photo required for uk visa application?
Yes, a digital photo is required for UK visa applications. Since 2019, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) mandates applicants to submit a digital photo during the online process. The image must be taken within the last month, against a plain light-gray or cream background, with a neutral expression, eyes open and visible, and facing the camera directly. Glasses and headwear are only allowed for religious or medical purposes. Although some visa centers may take photos during biometric appointments, uploading a pre-approved, compliant digital photo is strongly advised to avoid delays. For guaranteed adherence to UKVI standards, use iPassportPhoto’s AI-powered tool to generate an approved photo instantly
How many photos required for uk visa?
For a UK visa application, you must submit two identical, biometric-compliant color photos taken within the last 30 days.
What are the requirements for UK visa photo?
The requirements for uk visa photo:
- Size: 45mm x 35mm, with the face occupying 70-80% (29mm–34mm from chin to crown).
- Background: Plain light grey or cream, without shadows, patterns, or textures.
- Expression & Pose: Neutral expression (mouth closed, no smiling), facing forward with eyes fully open and visible.
- Appearance: No glasses (unless medically required), no head coverings (except for religious/medical reasons), and no hair obscuring the face.
- Quality: High-resolution, in color, with even lighting and no red-eye, glare, or editing.
Recency: Taken within the last 30 days.
Can I wear jewellery/piercing in the United Kingdom visa photo?
Yes, facial jewelry or piercings are permitted in UK visa photos provided they do not obscure any facial features (e.g., eyes, nose, or mouth). However, we strongly recommend removing large, shiny, or reflective items (such as bold earrings or nose rings) to avoid glare, shadows, or non-compliance with strict photo guidelines. Minimal, discreet jewelry is advisable to ensure your photo meets all requirements and avoids delays in visa processing.
What should I wear while capturing my UK visa photo?
For UK visa photos, wear everyday attire that contrasts with the plain light-colored background (e.g., avoid white or off-white tops). Avoid patterns, uniforms, or camouflage clothing. Head coverings are permitted only for religious reasons, provided your face remains fully visible. Remove non-religious hats, sunglasses, or accessories that obscure facial features. Ensure clothing aligns with UKVI guidelines for a professional, neutral appearance.
Can I wear glasses in my UK visa photo?
Yes, you can wear glasses in your UK visa photo if they meet strict requirements:
- No tinted lenses or sunglasses (clear lenses only).
- No glare or reflections on the lenses.
- Frames must not obscure any part of your eyes.
For optimal compliance, consider removing glasses unless medically necessary. If required for medical reasons, include a signed statement from your healthcare provider.
How must I pose in the UK visa photo?
For a UK visa photo, you must face the camera directly with a neutral expression, eyes fully open and visible, and mouth closed. Keep your head centered, untilted, and ensure your entire face is clearly visible without hair or accessories obstructing your features. Avoid smiling, frowning, or raising eyebrows to comply with strict UK government guidelines.
Should I attach a printed photo to my UK visa application?
Yes, printed photos are required for UK visa applications submitted by post or in person. For online applications, biometric photos are digitally captured at your visa application center. All photos must meet UKVI specifications (45mm x 35mm, plain light background, neutral expression).
Where can I take a UK visa photo near me?
For a guaranteed compliant UK visa photo, use our online tool at ipassportphoto.com. Simply take a photo with your smartphone, and our system will automatically adjust dimensions, crop to specifications, replace the background, and ensure strict adherence to UK visa requirements—all without visiting a photo booth or studio. This method saves time and minimizes rejection risks.
What is the required color of the background in the UK visa photo?
The UK visa photo requires a plain, uniform background in light grey or cream with no shadows, patterns, or objects. Ensure consistent lighting to avoid texture or discoloration. For guaranteed compliance, use our Visa Photo Tool to automatically adjust the background to meet UK Home Office specifications.
Must the picture for the UK visa be in color?
Yes. UK visa applications require color photographs. Black and white images are strictly prohibited to ensure accurate representation of your natural skin tone, eye color, and facial features, as mandated by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) guidelines.
What is a required size of the UK tourist visa photo?
The UK tourist visa photo must meet specific dimensions: 35mm wide x 45mm high (3.5cm x 4.5cm). Your head should measure between 29mm-34mm in height, occupying 70-80% of the image. Additional requirements include a plain light gray or cream background, a neutral expression, eyes open and visible, and no shadows or accessories (unless worn for religious/medical reasons). Photos must be recent (within the last 30 days) and printed on high-quality photo paper. Adhering to these guidelines ensures compliance and avoids processing delays. Use our tool to crop, resize, and validate your photo instantly.
How long is a photo taken for the UK visa valid?
UK visa application photos must be taken within the last 30 days to ensure they accurately represent your current appearance, as per UK Visas and Immigration requirements.