US, UK, Canada & EU Passport Photo Standards Compared

Planning international travel requires navigating the maze of passport photo requirements, which can vary significantly between countries. While all nations follow the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) guidelines to some degree, each country has implemented its own specific standards. Understanding these differences is crucial to avoid application rejections and processing delays.

This comprehensive guide compares the passport photo requirements for the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and European Union countries as of 2025, helping you get it right the first time.

Quick Comparison Overview

Requirement

United States

United Kingdom

Canada

European Union

Photo Size

2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm)

35 x 45 mm

50 x 70 mm

35 x 45 mm

Head Size

1-1⅜ inches (25-35 mm)

29-34 mm

31-36 mm

32-36 mm

Background Color

White or off-white

Light grey or cream

White or light-colored

Light grey or off-white

Glasses Allowed

No (with rare exceptions)

No

No

No

Smiling Allowed

No (neutral expression)

No (neutral expression)

No (neutral expression)

No (neutral expression)

Photo Age

Within 6 months

Within 1 month

Within 6 months

Within 6 months

Digital Submission

Yes (for online renewal)

Yes (for online applications)

Yes (for online applications)

Varies by country

United States Passport Photo Requirements

The U.S. Department of State has specific standards that must be met for passport applications and renewals.

Size and Dimensions

• Photo size: 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm)

• Head height: 1 to 1⅜ inches (25 to 35 mm) from bottom of chin to top of head

• Eye position: Eyes should be between 1⅛ to 1⅜ inches (28 to 35 mm) from the bottom of the photo

Technical Specifications

• Resolution: Minimum 300 pixels per inch (for digital submissions)

• Color: Full color photographs required

• Background: Plain white or off-white

• Paper quality: High-quality photo paper with matte or glossy finish

• File format: JPEG for digital submissions

• File size: Between 240 KB and 1 MB for online applications

Expression and Appearance

• Neutral facial expression or natural smile with mouth closed

• Both eyes open and clearly visible

• Face forward directly at the camera

• No head coverings except for religious purposes (face must be visible)

• No glasses (removed in 2016, rare medical exceptions only)

Recent Updates for 2025

The U.S. has expanded its online passport renewal system, allowing more citizens to submit digital photos directly. However, the photo must still meet all standard requirements. Photos taken with smartphones are acceptable if they meet technical specifications.

Common Rejection Reasons

• Shadows on the face or background

• Glare or red-eye

• Photos older than 6 months

• Wearing glasses

• Incorrect background color

• Improper head positioning

United Kingdom Passport Photo Requirements

Her Majesty's Passport Office has strict guidelines that differ from U.S. standards in several key ways.

Size and Dimensions

• Photo size: 35 x 45 mm

• Head height: 29 to 34 mm from chin to crown

• Photo must be: Cropped to show full head and shoulders

Technical Specifications

• Resolution: Minimum 600 DPI for digital photos

• Color: Color or black and white acceptable

• Background: Plain light grey or cream (not white)

• Lighting: Even, no shadows

• File format: JPEG for digital submission

• File size: No larger than 10 MB

Expression and Appearance

• Neutral expression with mouth closed (no smiling)

• Eyes open and visible

• Face must be in sharp focus

• Looking straight at the camera

• No hair across eyes

• Religious head coverings permitted if worn daily (face must be fully visible from bottom of chin to top of forehead)

Unique UK Requirements

• Recency: Photos must be taken within the last month (stricter than most countries)

• Background color: Light grey or cream specifically (white is not acceptable)

• Digital code system: Photos taken at UK photo booths come with a code for online applications

• Countersignature: May require someone to verify your identity for first-time applications

Recent Updates for 2025

The UK has enhanced its digital photo checker for online applications, making it easier to verify compliance before submission. The system uses AI to detect common errors and provides instant feedback.

Canada Passport Photo Requirements

Service Canada has established comprehensive standards that blend elements from both U.S. and international guidelines.

Size and Dimensions

• Photo size: 50 x 70 mm (larger than most countries)

• Head size: 31 to 36 mm from chin to crown

• Frame composition: Head centered, facing camera directly

Technical Specifications

• Resolution: Minimum 600 DPI

• Color: Color photos only

• Background: Plain white or light-colored

• Lighting: Uniform, no shadows on face or background

• Paper: High-quality photo paper (not regular printer paper)

• File requirements: JPEG format, 240 KB to 4 MB for digital submissions

Expression and Appearance

• Neutral expression with mouth closed

• Both eyes clearly visible and open

• Face camera directly with head straight

• No glasses (prohibited since 2016)

• Religious head coverings allowed if worn continuously (full facial features visible)

• No hair accessories covering the face

Photographer Requirements

One unique Canadian requirement is that your photo must include:

• Name and address of the photographer or studio stamped or printed on the back

• Date the photo was taken on the back

• This information must be clear and legible

Guarantor Requirements

For first-time applicants and children, a guarantor must:

• Sign and date the back of one photo

• Provide their signature, profession, and other details on the application

Recent Updates for 2025

Canada has streamlined its digital photo acceptance for online renewals, though the photographer identification requirement still applies. Service Canada now provides a photo verification tool on its website to check compliance before submission.

European Union Passport Photo Standards

The EU follows ICAO standards with member states having slight variations. However, core requirements are consistent across the union.

General EU Standards

Size and Dimensions

• Photo size: 35 x 45 mm (standard across most EU countries)

• Head height: 32 to 36 mm from chin to top of head

• Face coverage: 70-80% of the photo

Technical Specifications

• Resolution: Minimum 400 DPI (600 DPI recommended)

• Color: Color photographs preferred

• Background: Plain light grey, cream, or light blue (varies by country)

• Quality: Sharp focus, good contrast

• Lighting: Even illumination, no flash reflections

Expression and Appearance

• Neutral expression, mouth closed

• Eyes open and clearly visible

• Looking directly at camera

• Natural skin tones, no filters

• No glasses in most countries

• Head coverings only for religious or medical reasons

Country-Specific Variations Within the EU

Germany

• Background must be light grey specifically

• Photos must be in color

• Very strict about facial expression (absolutely no smiling)

• Recent photos (no older than 12 months, though 6 months recommended)

France

• Light grey background required

• Photos must be less than 6 months old

• Biometric standard compliance mandatory

• No retouching or filters allowed

Spain

• White or light-colored background

• Photos must be taken with neutral lighting

• Especially strict about shadows

Italy

• Light background (grey, cream, or light blue acceptable)

• Photos must clearly show facial features

• Particular attention to eye visibility

Netherlands

• Light grey background

• Very specific about head positioning

• Photos must be recent (within 6 months)

Sweden

• Light grey or light blue background acceptable

• Strict biometric compliance

• Clear focus on facial features

EU Digital Travel Initiatives

Many EU countries are moving toward digital passport photos as part of the broader digitalization effort. The EU Digital Travel Authorization system, while separate from passports, is influencing photo standards across member states.

Key Differences That Matter

Size Variations

The most obvious difference is physical dimensions:

• Canada has the largest photos at 50 x 70 mm

• United States uses 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm), making it nearly square

• UK and EU standard at 35 x 45 mm

This means you typically cannot reuse photos between these countries without having them reprinted to correct specifications.

Background Color Requirements

Background colors vary significantly:

• US and Canada: White or off-white

• UK and most EU countries: Light grey or cream (white not acceptable)

• Some EU countries: Light blue also permitted

Recency Requirements

How recent your photo must be:

• UK: Within 1 month (strictest)

• US, Canada, most EU: Within 6 months

• Germany: Up to 12 months acceptable (though 6 months recommended)

Glasses Prohibition

All four regions now prohibit glasses in passport photos, with extremely rare medical exceptions requiring documentation. This change was implemented between 2014-2016 across these regions due to facial recognition technology requirements.

Digital Photo Acceptance

• United States: Accepts digital photos for online renewals since 2021

• United Kingdom: Full digital submission available for online applications

• Canada: Digital photos accepted for online renewals with specific requirements

• European Union: Varies by member state, with increasing digital acceptance

Religious and Medical Accommodations

All countries provide accommodations while maintaining security requirements:

Religious Head Coverings

• Permitted in all four regions if worn continuously for religious reasons

• Face must be fully visible from bottom of chin to top of forehead

• Head covering cannot cast shadows on face

• May require supporting statement or letter

Medical Exceptions

• Glasses: Rare medical exceptions require physician documentation

• Physical disabilities: Accommodations for those unable to maintain neutral expression

• Support devices: May be visible if medically necessary (requires documentation)

Professional Tips for Multi-Country Compliance

If you're applying for passports in multiple countries, consider these strategies:

Take Country-Specific Photos

Don't try to reuse the same photo across different countries. While tempting to save money, the size and background differences mean you'll likely face rejection. Professional services like Passport Photos 4 can help you create compliant photos for multiple countries simultaneously.

Document Your Photos

Keep records of:

• When photos were taken

• What specifications they meet

• Which country's standards they follow

Use Professional Services

Professional passport photo services ensure compliance with specific country requirements, saving you time and preventing rejection. These services typically:

• Verify compliance with ICAO standards

• Adjust size and cropping for specific countries

• Ensure proper background colors

• Check facial expression and positioning

• Provide both digital and print-ready files

Check Before You Submit

All countries provide photo checking tools:

• Review official government websites

• Use automated compliance checkers

• Have someone else review your photo

• Compare against official examples

Common Mistakes Across All Countries

Certain errors lead to rejection regardless of which country you're applying to:

Technical Errors

1. Poor lighting: Shadows, overexposure, or underexposure

2. Wrong resolution: Pixelated or blurry images

3. Incorrect cropping: Head too small or too large in frame

4. Background issues: Wrong color, patterns, or shadows

5. Red-eye or glare: From flash or reflection

Appearance Errors

1. Smiling or inappropriate expression: Any country will reject smiling photos

2. Hair covering face: Must show full face including ears in some countries

3. Wearing glasses: Now prohibited across all these regions

4. Hats or head coverings: Unless religious or medical exemption

5. Makeup or filters: Heavy makeup or digital alterations

Documentation Errors

1. Photo too old: Check specific recency requirements

2. Missing photographer information: Required in Canada

3. Wrong size prints: Specifications vary by country

4. Incorrect file format: For digital submissions

5. File too large or small: Digital size requirements differ

Cost Considerations

Understanding costs helps with budgeting for passport photos:

Professional Photo Studios

• United States: $10-$25 for two photos

• United Kingdom: £5-£15 for compliant photos

• Canada: $15-$30 CAD for required photos

• European Union: €5-€15 depending on country

Automated Photo Booths

• Generally cheaper but less guidance

• May not meet all technical specifications

• Risk of rejection higher than professional studios

Online Photo Services

• Cost-effective option: often $5-$15

• Convenience of home photo creation

• Professional compliance checking included

• Instant digital delivery

Rejection Costs

Factor in potential costs of rejection:

• New photos: $10-$30

• Processing delays: Potentially missed travel

• Expedited processing fees: $60+ for rush service

Step-by-Step: Getting Compliant Photos

For United States Passports

1. Preparation
   
   

   • Wear normal daily attire (avoid uniforms)

   • Remove glasses

   • Style hair away from face

   • Choose location with white background

2. Taking the Photo
   
   

   • Position yourself 4 feet from white background

   • Camera at eye level

   • Ensure even lighting (no shadows)

   • Maintain neutral expression

   • Look directly at camera

3. Verification
   
   

   • Check photo is 2 x 2 inches

   • Verify head height is 1-1⅜ inches

   • Ensure background is pure white

   • Confirm taken within last 6 months

4. Submission
   
   

   • Print on quality photo paper if physical submission

   • Upload as JPEG if digital submission

   • Verify file size between 240 KB - 1 MB

For United Kingdom Passports

1. Preparation
   
   

   • Remove glasses and jewelry

   • Ensure hair doesn't cover eyes

   • Choose light grey or cream background

   • Avoid white clothing (blends with background requirement in other countries, but UK needs grey background)

2. Taking the Photo
   
   

   • Face camera straight on

   • Neutral expression, no smiling

   • Shoulders square to camera

   • Even lighting across face

3. Verification
   
   

   • Photo size: 35 x 45 mm

   • Head height: 29-34 mm

   • Background: Light grey or cream (not white)

   • Taken within last month

4. Submission
   
   

   • Use digital code if from UK photo booth

   • Upload to online application

   • Or submit prints with paper application

For Canadian Passports

1. Preparation
   
   

   • No glasses allowed

   • Plain white background

   • Normal daily clothing

2. Taking the Photo
   
   

   • Professional photographer required (photographer info needed)

   • Face forward, neutral expression

   • Ensure even lighting

3. Verification
   
   

   • Photo size: 50 x 70 mm

   • Head height: 31-36 mm

   • Photographer info on back

   • Date on back of photo

4. Submission
   
   

   • Have guarantor sign if required

   • Ensure photographer stamp is clear

   • Submit with application

For EU Country Passports

1. Preparation
   
   

   • Check specific country requirements

   • Remove glasses

   • Light grey or cream background (generally)

2. Taking the Photo
   
   

   • Neutral expression essential

   • Face camera directly

   • Even lighting

3. Verification
   
   

   • Size: 35 x 45 mm (standard)

   • Head height: 32-36 mm

   • Appropriate background color for specific country

   • Within 6 months

4. Submission
   
   

   • Follow specific country's process

   • Digital or physical as required

   • Include biometric data if necessary

Using Technology to Your Advantage

Modern technology makes compliance easier than ever:

Smartphone Apps and Tools

• Official government apps provide photo checkers

• Third-party apps can help with sizing and cropping

• AI-powered compliance verification

• Instant feedback on common errors

Online Photo Services

Services like Passport Photos 4 offer:

• Automated background removal and replacement

• Correct sizing for any country

• Compliance checking against official standards

• Instant digital delivery

• Print-ready files

Additional tools like photo to sketch converters can help with other photo needs, though passport photos must be standard photographs.

DIY at Home

If taking photos yourself:

• Use a tripod for stability

• Set up even lighting (natural light or softbox)

• Use white poster board for US/Canadian backgrounds

• Use grey paper for UK/EU backgrounds

• Take multiple shots to choose the best

Future Trends in Passport Photos

The landscape of passport photos continues to evolve:

Biometric Integration

All regions are enhancing biometric capabilities:

• Facial recognition becoming standard

• 3D facial mapping in development

• Iris scanning integration

• More precise measurement requirements

Digital-First Approach

Moving toward fully digital processes:

• Smartphone photo acceptance expanding

• AI verification replacing human review

• Real-time compliance feedback

• Reduced need for physical photos

Standardization Efforts

International cooperation increasing:

• ICAO continues refining global standards

• Greater consistency between countries

• Simplified requirements for travelers

• Improved interoperability

Selfie Passports

Some countries testing:

• Self-submitted photos without professional requirement

• Mobile app-based submission

• Instant verification and approval

• Pilot programs in select countries

Resources and Support

Official Resources

United States

• U.S. Department of State: travel.state.gov

• Photo requirements: travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/photos.html

United Kingdom

• Gov.UK Passport Office: gov.uk/photos-for-passports

• Digital photo checker: available on application website

Canada

• Service Canada: canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/canadian-passports

• Photo specifications: detailed on IRCC website

European Union

• Check specific country's government website

• ICAO standards: icao.int

Professional Help

For personalized assistance:

• About Us - Learn about professional photo services

• Contact Us - Get expert guidance on requirements

• Privacy Policy - Understand data protection

• Terms and Conditions - Service guidelines

Conclusion

While passport photo requirements vary between the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and European Union countries, understanding the key differences ensures successful applications. The most critical distinctions involve photo size, background color, and recency requirements.

Key takeaways:

• Never reuse photos between different countries without verification

• Check current requirements before taking photos (rules evolve)

• Don't smile - neutral expressions are universal

• No glasses - prohibited across all these regions

• Professional help can prevent costly rejections

Taking time to understand and follow each country's specific requirements saves money, prevents delays, and ensures your passport application proceeds smoothly. Whether applying for one passport or multiple, getting compliant photos is your first step toward hassle-free international travel.

Remember that passport photo rules exist for security and identification purposes. While they may seem strict, these standards protect travelers worldwide and facilitate smoother border crossings. Invest the effort upfront, and you'll have a passport that serves you well for years to come.