UK Visa Photo Size & Requirements: Essential Guide for Indians

UK Visa Photo Size

To comply with the UK visa photo specification, your photos need to meet specific standards:

The photo size for the UK visa should be 45mm x 35mm.
The head should be positioned between 29mm and 34mm from the chin to the crown.
The photo should capture your head and the top of your shoulders, with your face covering 70-80% of the image.
The photo must have been taken within the last six months to reflect your current appearance.

UK Visa photo size

Face Visibility and Expression for UK Visa Photo

Your face must be clearly visible, and your expression should be appropriate:

Eyes must be open, and no hair should cover them.
The face should be directly facing the camera, with both sides of the face clearly visible.
You should maintain a neutral expression with a closed mouth.
The photo should show only you, with no objects or people in the background.

Style and Lighting for UK Visa Photo

Proper style and lighting are essential for an acceptable UK visa photo:

The photo should be in color, not black and white.
Use a plain, light-colored background such as white or cream.
Ensure uniform lighting to avoid shadows, reflections, and glare.
No red-eye, and the lighting should be even on your face.

UK Visa Photo Glasses and Head Cover Instructions

There are specific guidelines for glasses and head coverings in the UK visa photo:

For Glasses:

Glasses are allowed in the photo, but your eyes must be clearly visible.
No tinted lenses or glare/reflections from flash should be visible.
Avoid heavy frames that might cover parts of your eyes.

For Head Coverings:

Head coverings for religious reasons are allowed but must not obscure any part of your face.
Your face, from chin to forehead, and both sides of your face must be clearly visible.

UK Visa Photo Requirements for Children and Infants

Children’s visa photos also need to meet specific guidelines:

The child should be alone in the photo with no toys or other people.
The child should face the camera with a neutral expression and a closed mouth.
Infants and babies are allowed to have their eyes partially closed, but they should still be facing the camera directly.

Final Thought

Submitting a photo that meets all UK visa photo requirements is a critical step in your visa application process. By paying close attention to the UK visa photo size, background, quality, and other UK visa photo specification, you can significantly increase your chances of a smooth and successful application. Use this guide as your UK visa photo sample checklist, and you'll be well-prepared!

FAQs

What is the required photo size for a UK visa?

The required photo size for a UK visa is 45mm x 35mm. Your head should be between 29mm and 34mm from chin to crown.

How many photos do I need for a UK visa?

You need to provide two recent passport-sized color photos for your UK visa application.

How recent should my UK visa photo be?

Your UK visa photo must be taken within the last six months to reflect your current appearance.

Can I wear glasses in my UK visa photo?

Yes, glasses are allowed. However, your eyes must be clearly visible, with no reflections or tinted lenses, and the frames should not obstruct your eyes.

Are head coverings allowed in UK visa photos?

Head coverings for religious reasons are allowed but must not obstruct any part of your face, including the sides, chin, and forehead.

What background should be used for a UK visa photo?

The background should be plain and light-colored, preferably white or cream, with uniform lighting and no shadows or reflections.

What quality should my UK visa photo be?

The photo must be in sharp focus, clear, and free from marks or creases. It should be printed on high-quality glossy photo paper with a high resolution.

Get Your UK Visa Photo Right: Size, Format & Background Explained

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