Compare
United Kingdom vs France passport photo — full spec comparison
Side-by-side comparison of passport photo requirements for United Kingdom and France, sourced from each issuing authority.
In short
United Kingdom and France use the same photo dimensions for this document. The other specifications (head-height, background, glasses) may still differ — see below.
Can you use the same photo for both?
Usually not. Both documents use 35 × 45 mm, but the background requirements differ — United Kingdom: Cream or light grey; France: Light grey. A photo prepared for one may be rejected by the other.
Specification table
Every value in this table is taken from the official publications of the two issuing authorities. Open either country page for the full rule set, the printable layout and the source links.
| Attribute | United Kingdom | France |
|---|---|---|
| Photo size | 35 × 45 mm | 35 × 45 mm |
| Digital photo (px) | 600×750 px | Not specified by the issuing authority |
| Head height | 64–76% (29–34 mm) | 71–80% (32–36 mm) |
| Background | Plain light background in cream or grey tone without patterns. | The background must be plain and light — light grey or light blue; a white background is not allowed. |
| Glasses | No reflections or tinting; remove glasses if there is a risk of reflections. | Clear lenses without reflections; eyes must be fully visible. |
| Expression | Neutral expression; the applicant must be recognisable. | Neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open. |
| Head covering | Religious reasons only; must not cover the facial oval. | The head must be bare (La tête doit être nue): hats, headscarves, and headbands are prohibited; there are no exceptions. |
| Pose | Full face, filling as much of the frame as possible without cropping. | Full face, head centred, no tilt or rotation. |
| Lighting / shadows | No digital enhancements, shadows, or print artefacts. | No shadows, creases, or marks on the photo. |
| Attire | Neutral clothing without uniform or distracting accessories. | Face must be fully open, hair must not cover the eyes; ears must be visible. |
| Authority | HM Passport Office | Service-Public.fr / Ministère de l’Intérieur |
| Verification | Official — exact | Official — exact |
| Last verified | 2026-05-21 | 2026-05-21 |
Read each rule set in full
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the same photo for United Kingdom and France?
Usually not. Both documents use 35 × 45 mm, but the background requirements differ — United Kingdom: Cream or light grey; France: Light grey. A photo prepared for one may be rejected by the other.
Which photo is larger — United Kingdom or France?
Neither — both countries use the same 35 × 45 mm photo for this document.
What background colour do United Kingdom and France require?
United Kingdom requires: Cream or light grey. France requires: Light grey.