Applying for the United Kingdom visa requires you to furnish a list of documents, photographs being one of the most important ones. While people focus on ensuring that their bank accounts are in order and their passport has the required validity, not many check if they are submitting the right photographs. This may seem trivial but incorrect photographs can lead to the rejection of your UK visa. Hence, it is crucial to know about the UK visa photo size and requirements before you apply for the visa. Here is a complete guide about the UK visa photo size requirements and some tips that you need to know.
UK Visa Photo Size Requirements
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The UK visa photo size is the most important criteria when it comes to submitting the photographs for visa application.
- The size of the UK visa photo should be 45mm x 35 mm.
- The face should occupy 70-80% of the photograph. The top of your shoulders should also be seen in the photo.
- The measurement between the crown of your head to your chin should be between 29-34 mm.
- The distance between the top of the photo and the top of your head should 4.9mm.
UK Visa Photo Color and Background Requirements
It is mandatory to submit color photographs for your UK visa photo. Black and white photos will not be accepted. The background of the photo should either be cream or light grey. Moreover, it should be plain. There should be no patterns, textures, objects, people, or shadows in the background.
UK Visa Photo Pose and Expression Requirements
While getting your visa photo clicked, make sure the position of your face is directly in front of the camera. Both sides of the face should be clearly visible. Your eyes must be open and looking into the camera. Photos where only your side profile are visible will not be accepted. The distance between the camera and your face should be somewhere around 1-2 meters. The expression on your face should be neutral, and your mouth must remain closed. Photos where you are smiling, grinning, laughing, or frowning may become one of the UK visa rejection reasons.
UK Visa Photo Lighting and Clarity Requirements
It is important to have the perfect lighting when getting your photo clicked. The lighting should be even; it should not be too bright or too light. There should be no shadows or glare on the photo. There should be no reflection of flash on the eyes. It is important to avoid red eyes too. The focus on the photo should be sharp.
UK Visa Photo Clothing Requirements
Everyday clothes are recommended for UK visa photographs. It is best to avoid light-colored clothes, as it is likely that you may blend with the background which is already light. Go for clothes with darker colors to maintain the contrast. If you are in a profession where you have to wear a uniform, it is important that you change into your regular clothes before getting your photo clicked. Uniforms are not allowed for visa photos. Head coverings meant for religious or medical reasons can be worn for your photo. But the head covering should not mask your face. Your facial features like chin, forehead, and sides should be seen clearly. However, you cannot wear hats and caps while getting your visa photo clicked.
UK Visa Photo Guidelines on Glasses and Accessories
If you wear glasses, it would be best to remove them while getting the visa photo taken. However, if you need to wear the glasses for some medical requirement, you need to ensure that the frames of your glasses do not cover your eyes. There should no glare or reflection on the lens. Sunglasses and tinted glasses are a complete no-no. In case of accessories, wearing small and delicate earrings are acceptable. However, avoid wearing large earrings or headbands or any other large accessories. Similarly, your hair should not cover any of your facial features.
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UK Visa Photo Guidelines for Infants and Children
Every individual, be it an infant, toddler, or child, requires a UK visa if traveling with parents. While the size of the photo remains the same for children, some rules are relaxed. Here are some of the things to follow while taking UK visa photo for infants and children.
- Infants or children under the age of 1 can have their eyes closed for the visa photo. However, they should face the camera directly.
- Infants need to be laid on a white cloth. If someone is supporting the child’s head, his/her hand should not be visible in the photo.
- There should be no toys or dummies (pacifiers) on or near the children.
- Ensure the child’s face is facing the camera and his/her mouth is closed. Neutral expression is also required, except for babies under the age of 1 year.
Important Tips for Submitting UK Visa Photo
- You need to provide two identical photographs for your UK visa application.
- The photos should be printed on high-quality, glossy paper. The photos should not have creases, tears, or folds.
- The UK visa photo should not have any borders.
- The photos should be recent. The photos should not be older than 6 months.
- If there are major changes in your appearance within 6 months (like loss/gain of weight, addition or removal of piercings, gender change, etc.), you need to take a new photo, one that resembles your current appearance.
- It is best to get your photo clicked at a professional photo studio. The photographers at these studios are usually aware of the requirements for UK visa and will take your photo accordingly. You will get the photo printed as per the rules as well.
Conclusion
Getting the right UK visa photo is necessary to ensure that your visa process happens smoothly, without any unnecessary delays.
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