Passport Photo Rules for 2025: What You Need to Know
Getting a passport photo right the first time saves you trips to the studio and endless retakes. In 2025 the basic rules stay the same, but a few details have shifted. Below you’ll find the exact size, background, lighting, and pose requirements that most countries accept, plus step‑by‑step tips to snap a perfect shot at home.
Exact Size and Crop Requirements
Most passports require a 2 × 2 inch (51 × 51 mm) image. The face must fill 70‑80 % of the frame – roughly from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head. In the UK the eye line should sit between 1.2 in and 1.4 in from the bottom of the photo. For the US the head height should be 1 inch to 1.4 in. Make sure you measure the dimensions before you print; a quick crop in any free editor will keep you within limits.
Background, Lighting, and Pose
A plain white or off‑white background is non‑negotiable. Anything with texture, shadows, or objects will get rejected. Use a blank wall, a sheet, or a light‑colored backdrop.
Lighting should be even, with no harsh shadows on the face or background. Position a lamp or natural window light in front of you, not above or behind. If you have a phone camera, enable HDR to balance light and keep details.
Stand straight, look directly at the camera, and keep a neutral expression – no smiling, no frowning. Keep both ears visible, and make sure glasses are glare‑free; most countries now allow them if the lenses are clear.
When you take the picture, use the highest resolution setting. After you snap the shot, check these quick points:
- Face centered and square to the camera.
- No shadows on the background.
- Neutral expression – mouth closed, eyes open.
- Hair not covering the forehead or eyes.
If everything looks good, crop to the exact 2 × 2 inch size, save as a JPEG with a 300 dpi resolution, and you’re ready to upload or print. Many online services let you upload the file and will automatically adjust the crop, but double‑check the final preview.
Need a faster way? Some countries now accept a phone‑taken photo if it meets the same specifications. Just make sure your phone’s camera is set to the highest quality, use a tripod or stable surface, and follow the lighting and background rules above.
Remember to check the specific guidelines of the country you’re applying for. While most follow the 2 × 2 inch rule, the UK uses a 45 mm × 35 mm size for some visas, and India requires a 51 mm × 51 mm image with a light gray background. A quick glance at the official passport website will confirm any minor tweaks.
By following these simple steps you’ll avoid costly re‑submissions and get your passport on the road faster. Grab your camera, set up a plain wall, and you’re good to go.