Applying for a United Kingdom visa requires you to furnish a list of documents, with photographs being among the most important. While people focus on ensuring their bank accounts are in order and their passport has the required validity, not many check if they are submitting the right photographs. This factor may seem trivial, but incorrect photographs can lead to the rejection of your UK visa. Hence, it is crucial to understand 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 criterion when submitting photographs for a visa application.
- 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 and your chin should be between 29 and 34 mm.
- The distance between the top of the photo and the top of your head should be 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 photo’s background should be either 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 taken, 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 is 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 be 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 taken. The lighting should be even, neither too bright nor too dim. There should be no shadows or glare on the photo. There should be no reflection of flash on the eyes. It is also important to avoid red eyes. 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 you may blend into the already light background. Go for darker clothes to maintain the contrast. If you are in a profession that requires a uniform, it is important that you change into your regular clothes before getting your photo taken. 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, such as the chin, forehead, and sides, should be seen clearly. However, you cannot wear hats or caps when getting your visa photo taken.
UK Visa Photo Guidelines on Glasses and Accessories
If you wear glasses, it is best to remove them when getting your visa photo taken. However, if you need to wear the glasses for a medical reason, ensure the frames of your glasses do not cover your eyes. There should be no glare or reflection on the lens. Sunglasses and tinted glasses are a complete no-no. For accessories, small, delicate earrings are acceptable. However, avoid wearing large earrings, 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, whether an infant, toddler, or child, requires a UK visa if traveling with parents. While the photo size remains the same for children, some rules are relaxed. Here are some things to keep in mind when taking UK visa photos for infants and children.
- Infants or children under one year old 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. A neutral expression is also required, except for babies under the age of 1 year.
Important Tips for Submitting a 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 (such as weight gain or loss, the 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 taken at a professional photo studio. The photographers at these studios are usually aware of the requirements for a UK visa and will take your photo accordingly. You will also get the photo printed per the rules.
Conclusion
Getting the right UK visa photo is essential to ensure your visa process runs smoothly, Â without any unnecessary delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
