UK passport photo rules are designed to keep your eyes and facial features clearly visible while allowing head coverings worn for religious or medical reasons.
Can You Wear Glasses in a UK Passport Photo?
GOV.UK advises applicants not to wear glasses in passport photos unless they need to wear them.
If you must wear glasses, make sure:
- Your glasses have clear, untinted lenses.
- Your eyes remain fully visible through the lenses.
- Frames do not cover your eyes.
- There are no reflections or glare hiding your eyes.
- Glasses do not create shadows across your eyes or face.
Sunglasses and tinted glasses are not permitted in standard UK passport photos.
Can You Wear a Hijab, Turban or Other Head Covering?
Yes. UK passport photo rules allow head coverings worn for religious or medical reasons.
You can wear a hijab, turban, or another permitted head covering, provided your face remains clearly visible.
Decorative headwear and fashion hats do not meet the standard requirements for passport photographs.
Can Hair Cover Your Eyes in a Passport Photo?
No. Your hair must not cover your eyes. Keep your eyes and facial features clearly visible in the photograph.
The purpose of these requirements is to ensure your photograph provides a clear view of your face for passport identification.
Quick Checklist Before Taking Your Photo
- Remove your glasses unless you need to wear them.
- Use clear, untinted lenses if glasses are necessary.
- Check for glare, reflections, and shadows.
- Keep your eyes fully visible.
- Wear religious or medical head coverings only when your face remains visible.
- Move hair away from your eyes.
Official UK Passport Photo Guidance
For the full requirements covering glasses, head coverings, facial visibility, and other passport photo rules, consult the official GOV.UK passport photo guidance.
