UK Passport Photo Maker

A UK passport photo is 45mm high by 35mm wide, and the requirement that catches most people out is not the photo size at all — it is the head size within it. HM Passport Office asks for between 29mm and 34mm from the crown of the head to the bottom of the chin. Too tightly cropped and the head overshoots it; a photo taken at arm's length usually falls short. This tool sizes and positions the crop to sit inside that range.

The background rule is also more permissive than it is often reported. GOV.UK asks for a plain light-coloured background without texture or pattern, so plain white works but is not the only option — light grey and cream are equally acceptable. What fails is patterned wallpaper, a visible shadow cast behind you, or anything with enough texture to break up the field behind your head.

The remaining rules are about the photo being a current, unedited likeness. It must be in colour with no effects or filters, taken within the last month, sharp rather than blurred, and free of red eye. Your whole face needs to be visible with your eyes open and a plain expression, mouth closed. Glasses are allowed if your eyes are clearly visible and there is no glare on the lenses.