🇬🇧 United Kingdom Skilled Worker Visa photo requirements
The exact specification for this route — size, head height, background and the details that get photographs bounced at the counter.
Check my photo freeThe specification
Photo size
35 x 45 mm
Head height
29–34 mm chin to crown
Background
Plain light grey or cream
- No borders or frames
- Neutral expression, mouth closed
- Taken within the last month
Last reviewed 12/08/2026 · Source: UK Home Office photo rules. Confirm against the official United Kingdom guidance before printing.
Why visa photos get rejected
- Background is off-white, textured or shadowed instead of the flat tone required.
- Head is too large or too small in the frame — the single most common mechanical failure.
- Smiling, open mouth, or eyes partially closed.
- Glare on glasses, tinted lenses, or frames crossing the eyes.
- Digital retouching, beauty filters or a photo cropped out of a group picture.
- Low resolution or heavy JPEG compression once uploaded.
Frequently asked questions
What size photo is needed for a United Kingdom Skilled Worker Visa?
35 x 45 mm. Head height must be 29–34 mm chin to crown, taken against a Plain light grey or cream background.
Can I wear glasses in a United Kingdom Skilled Worker Visa photo?
Assume no. Almost every authority now rejects glasses because of glare and frame obstruction. If you must wear them for medical reasons, carry the supporting letter.
How recent must the photo be?
Within the last six months, and it must reflect your current appearance — beard, hair length and glasses status included.
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