GOV.UK-based photo guidance
UK passport photo vs UK visa photo
UK passport and UK visa photos look similar because both are identity photos, but the deliverable can be different. A passport photo code, a digital JPEG upload, a UKVI permission photo, and a 35 x 45 mm print are not interchangeable.
Checked: 2026-07-01
Quick answer
- UKVI digital visa photos: at least 600 x 750 px, JPG/JPEG, 50 KB to 6 MB.
- UK digital passport photos: at least 600 x 750 px, JPEG, 50 KB to 10 MB.
- UK printed passport photos: 45 x 35 mm physical prints.
- This app creates photo files and print layouts; it does not issue HM Passport Office photo codes.
The visual style overlaps, but the submission object differs
Both photo types expect a clear, recent, colour portrait with a plain light background and natural expression. That similarity is why people reuse the phrase “passport photo” for many UK immigration routes.
The problem is the object you submit. A UKVI online route may want a digital file under 6 MB. A passport renewal may accept a digital JPEG or a photo code. A paper passport-style route may ask for two physical prints. Prepare the object requested by your route.
Photo code is a separate service
HM Passport Office photo codes are issued by participating photo providers. A normal photo-preparation app can export a JPEG file or print layout, but it should not claim to issue an HMPO photo code unless it actually connects to that service.
If your passport application specifically asks for a photo code, use a provider that offers that code. If your visa route asks for a direct upload, a correctly prepared JPEG is the relevant deliverable.
Comparison checklist
- Visa upload: check 50 KB to 6 MB and no mirroring.
- Digital passport: check 50 KB to 10 MB and direct upload/photo-code instructions.
- Printed photo: check 45 x 35 mm physical size and actual-size printing.
- Every route: check current GOV.UK instructions before submission.
Official-source note
These guides summarize GOV.UK photo guidance for visa applications, permission to stay, UK passport digital photos, and printed 35 x 45 mm passport photos where the rule is relevant.
This website and app are independent photo preparation tools. They are not affiliated with GOV.UK, UK Visas and Immigration, the Home Office, HM Passport Office, or a visa application centre. Preparing a photo does not guarantee acceptance, approval, or visa issuance.
Related guides
FAQ
Can one photo file work for both UK passport and UK visa?
Sometimes one original capture can be exported into both formats, but you should check file size, upload instructions, and whether the route asks for a photo code or a direct file upload.
Does this app provide a UK passport photo code?
No. It creates digital photo files and 35 x 45 mm print layouts. It does not issue HM Passport Office photo codes.
Official sources
- GOV.UK - How to take a photo for a visa application or permission Checked: 2026-07-01
- GOV.UK - Digital passport photo requirements Checked: 2026-07-01
- GOV.UK - Printed passport photo requirements Checked: 2026-07-01
This website and app are independent photo preparation tools. They are not affiliated with GOV.UK, UK Visas and Immigration, the Home Office, HM Passport Office, or a visa application centre. Preparing a photo does not guarantee acceptance, approval, or visa issuance.
All UK visa photo guides
Create your UK passport or visa photo now
Create a UKVI-style digital JPEG or 35 x 45 mm print layout, then confirm the latest GOV.UK instructions for your actual application route.
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