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UK ETA photo requirements

UK ETA photo: size and rules

As of November 3, 2026, a UK ETA application takes a digital photo of the traveller’s face: a JPG of at least 600 x 750 pixels and 50 KB to 6 MB, on a plain light-coloured background (per gov.uk, checked on Nov 3, 2026).

The face photo for a UK ETA has to be at least 600 pixels wide and 750 pixels tall, in portrait orientation.

GOV.UK warns that an ETA application can be delayed or rejected when the face photo does not meet the rules for digital photos.

Updated Rules checked against gov.ukHow we check

UK ETA photo at a glance

Digital size
At least 600 x 750 pxgov.uk
File size
50 KB to 6 MBgov.uk
Background
Plain light-colouredgov.uk
Glasses
Only if needed; no tint, eyes cleargov.uk

Questions people ask

What photo does the UK ETA need?

A digital picture of the traveller’s face, which you upload on the GOV.UK form or take inside the UK ETA app. GOV.UK sends ETA applicants to its rules for digital face photos: a JPG of at least 600 by 750 pixels, from 50 KB to 6 MB, unedited and not mirrored.

A photo that misses the rules can delay or sink the application, so check it before you submit.

Sources: gov.uk (pages 1, 2)

Can you wear glasses or a head covering in a UK ETA photo?

Take glasses off unless you need them; if you keep them on, no sunglasses or tint, and nothing over the eyes. Head coverings only for religious or medical reasons, against a plain light background.

For a child, the app takes the child’s own face photo; under-6s need not look straight at the lens.

Sources: gov.uk (pages 1, 2)

Common reasons a photo is turned down

  1. GOV.UK warns that an ETA application can be delayed or rejected when the face photo does not meet the rules for digital photos. gov.uk

Every rule, with its source

Background

  • A plain light-coloured background, in clear contrast with the face, is required in the ETA photo. gov.uk

Glasses, head coverings and clothing

  • Glasses stay off in the ETA face photo unless they must be worn, and then never sunglasses or tinted lenses, with the eyes free of frames, glare and shadow. gov.uk
  • Head coverings are left out of the ETA photo unless worn for religious or medical reasons. gov.uk

Editing and filters

  • The ETA face photo cannot be altered with software or filters, and it cannot be mirrored or flipped. gov.uk

Digital file

  • The face photo for a UK ETA has to be at least 600 pixels wide and 750 pixels tall, in portrait orientation. gov.uk
  • The ETA face photo file is a JPG or JPEG between 50 KB and 6 MB. gov.uk

Babies and children

  • For children under 6, the UK rules relax the gaze and expression requirements, and babies under one can have their eyes closed. gov.uk

Where photos come from

  • Every UK ETA application includes a photo of the face of the person applying, uploaded or taken during the application. gov.uk
  • In the UK ETA app, the applicant takes the face photo with the phone, including for a child they apply for. gov.uk

FAQ

Can I use my passport photo for the UK ETA?

GOV.UK says the face photo must not be the same photo that is in your passport or identity card, and must not be a scan or photo of another photo. Source: official page "Take a photo of your face for a visa application or permission", checked on Nov 3, 2026.

Do I need a printed photo for a UK ETA?

No. You upload the face photo on the online form or take it in the UK ETA app. Source: official pages "Get an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) to visit the UK: Apply for an ETA" and "Using the 'UK ETA' app", checked on Nov 3, 2026.

Is SelfieToPassport UK Home Office?

No. SelfieToPassport is not affiliated with UK Home Office or any other government agency. UK Home Office publishes the photo rules for free at gov.uk; this page links to each one.

Does SelfieToPassport replace the background of a UK ETA photo?

We crop and resize your original photo and never replace or repaint the background. If the wall does not pass the check, the tool asks for a new photo and tells you how to fix the light or the wall.

Ready? Free preview with the measurements drawn on your photo; $6.95 for the digital file and both print sheets.

Make my UK ETA photo

Where this information comes from

Every rule on this page comes from a page published by UK Home Office, read on the date shown. We rewrite each rule in plain words and link to the page it came from. Each rule has a review deadline; one that passes it without a new check comes off the page.

Something here out of date? Tell us and we will check it against the official page.