Taken at the issuing office

🇬🇧UK Visa Photo

For this document the photo is taken in person when you apply, so you can't supply your own. Here's what the official camera checks and how to prepare so you're not turned away.

You don't bring your own photo.

The issuing office photographs you on site at your appointment. There's nothing to upload or buy here — use this page to get ready.

Example of a compliant UK Visa photo

What the office is looking for

What to expect at your appointment

Understanding the UK visa photo standard and preparing before your biometric appointment at the visa application centre.

Read the official requirements

What their camera checks

The official photo standard you'll be measured against.

Photo size
1.4" × 1.8" (35 × 45 mm)
Background
White
Head height
Head height 29-34mm from chin to crown
Glasses
Not allowed
Recency
Taken within the last 6 months

How to prepare

Sort these before your appointment and the photo passes first time.

  • Wearing glasses — Glasses are NOT allowed in UK visa photos since 2016
  • Wrong head size — Head height must be 29-34mm from chin to crown
  • Background not plain — Must be plain white, cream, or light grey with no patterns
  • Shadows on face — Photo must have even lighting with no shadows
  • Expression not neutral — Neutral expression with mouth closed required

Other UK documents

Some of these you can prepare and print yourself.

Official source: www.gov.uk · Last verified 2026-06-13