Regardless of application route, your photo must meet passport quality requirements as stipulated below:
Your photo must:
- not contain any other objects or people
- be a full close-up shot of your head and upper shoulders
- be taken recently (within a month)
- be in focus, clear and in full colour
- be against a light-coloured, plain background
- be unmodified by software i.e. Adobe Photoshop, Snapchat / Instagram filters
In your photo you have to:
- be facing the camera, looking straight on
- have your mouth closed and a neutral facial expression e.g. don't smile, frown or pout
- have your eyes visible and open - they need to be free from reflection or glare; you can't wear sunglasses or tinted glasses (unless medically prescribed)
- have your hair pulled / tied back from your face
- remove any objects or clothing covering your face
- remove any head covering (excepting if worn for religious / medical reasons) e.g. hat, cap, any fashion hair accessories or glasses on your head
- avoid any shadows on your face or behind you
- remove any artificial markings on your face (heavy makeup / fake tattoos or freckles)
For more information view our Photo Guidance page.
Additionally, you can read about common issues with photos uploaded for information regarding some difficulties found with providing a photo.
