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UK Visa

UK Visa Photo Requirements (35x45mm)

UK visa photo requirements: plain light background, plain expression, face clearly visible. The UK does not accept photos altered by software, so we explain the rules and do not make this photo.

Last updated Oct 9, 2026

Verified against the official source · Oct 8, 2026
Read the official photo rulesBrowse supported photo makersGuidance only · we do not make this photo

UK Visa Photo Requirements

Many UK visa and permit applications use a standard 35x45mm biometric photo with strict neutrality and plain background expectations.

  • 35mm x 45mm dimensions.
  • Light neutral background.
  • Neutral expression and mouth closed.
  • No glasses for best acceptance.
  • The photo must not be altered by computer software.

Photo Examples

Correct photo

Pass example

Correct photo

Incorrect photo

Common rejection risk

Incorrect photo

Real UK Visa Photo Rejection Data

34.6% of UK Visa Photo photos were rejected on first submission, based on 26 checks run through VisaPhotoCheck.

Most common reasons a rejected photo failed

  • Crop or framing56%
  • Head pose or angle33%
  • Accessories (glasses, hats, headphones)11%
  • Expression11%
  • Lighting or shadows11%

Each figure is the share of rejected UK Visa Photo photos that failed that specific check. A single rejection often fails more than one check, so these do not add up to 100%.

Based on VisaPhotoCheck's own UK Visa Photo submissions — this reflects our users, not an official or industry-wide rejection rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

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