A rule concerning the presence of red eye in passport photographs could lead to application rejection or delay this year, potentially disrupting holiday plans. According to UK Government officials, strict adherence to all guidelines is necessary to avoid delays in receiving a passport.
Key Requirements for Digital Passport Photos
The GOV.UK website states that applicants need a digital photo to apply for a passport online. A new photo is required for each new passport, even if appearance has not changed. The photo must have been taken within the last month, and any red eye could be problematic. Applications will be delayed if photos do not meet the rules.
How to Take a Digital Photo
Photos must be clear, in focus, in colour, unaltered by computer software, at least 600 pixels wide and 750 pixels tall, and between 50KB and 10MB. The photo should contain no other objects or people, be taken against a plain light-coloured background, have clear contrast, and no red eye. The image must include head, shoulders, and upper body; cropping will be done automatically.
In the photo, the applicant must face forward, look straight at the camera, have a plain expression with mouth closed, eyes open and visible, no hair in front of eyes, no head covering unless for religious or medical reasons, nothing covering the face, and no shadows on the face or behind. Glasses should be avoided unless medically necessary; if worn, they must not be sunglasses or tinted, and eyes must be fully visible without glare, reflections, or shadows.
Passport Photos for Babies and Children
Children must be alone in the picture. Babies must not hold toys or use dummies. Children under 6 do not need to look directly at the camera or have a plain expression. Babies under one do not need to have their eyes open; their head can be supported with a hand as long as the hand is not visible. Babies under one should lie on a plain light-coloured sheet, with the photo taken from above.
How to Get a Digital Photo
Digital photos can be taken at a photo booth or shop before applying, or using a personal device during the application. GOV.UK cautions that photos from a booth or shop are more likely to be approved than those taken with a personal device. When using a booth or shop, choose the option to receive a code to enter during the application. Printed photos have additional rules, but avoiding red eye remains a consistent requirement.
