Passport and ID Photo Requirements: What to Check Before You Print

Always check the official rules

Requirements differ from country to country and can change. Before you take a photo, read the instructions on your government’s official passport or visa page. This guide covers what is common, but the official source always wins.

Common size requirements

• United States and India: usually 2 by 2 inches (51 by 51 mm).
• United Kingdom, the Schengen area and many other countries: usually 35 by 45 mm.

Online applications can also ask for a minimum pixel size and a maximum file size. Read these carefully.

What authorities usually want

• A recent photo, often taken within the last six months.
• A plain, light background with no pattern.
• Your face centred, looking straight at the camera.
• A neutral expression with the mouth closed.
• Even lighting without shadows on the face or background.
• No filters, retouching or heavy editing.
• No hats, and glasses only if the rules allow, without glare.

Taking the photo at home

1. Stand a short distance from a plain light wall in daylight.
2. Ask someone to take the photo at eye level, straight on.
3. Keep the camera steady and use the rear camera for better quality.
4. Check there are no shadows behind you.

Making the right size

Use the passport photo maker: pick your country, move your photo so your face lines up with the guide, and save it at the exact size. For other cards and badges, use the ID photo maker with a custom size.

Printing copies

You can fit several copies on one sheet. Print on glossy photo paper, at actual size and not “fit to page”, so the measurements stay exact. Cut carefully along the edges.

Common reasons for rejection

• Shadows on the face or background.
• The head too small or too large in the frame.
• Glare on glasses.
• An uneven or coloured background.
• A smile, open mouth or tilted head.
• Blurry or low-resolution images.

Frequently asked questions