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UK vs Spain passport photo: 35 × 45 mm vs 26 × 32 mm
UK: 35 × 45 mm. Spain: 26 × 32 mm. Head height, background, glasses and file rules for the passport photo, side by side from each issuing authority.
Can you use the same photo for both?
No — the print sizes differ. UK requires 35 × 45 mm, while Spain requires 26 × 32 mm, so one print cannot satisfy both specifications. You will need a separate photo set for each document.
In short
UK requires 35 × 45 mm while Spain requires 26 × 32 mm. The two specifications are NOT interchangeable — a photo accepted for one will 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 | UK | Spain |
|---|---|---|
| Photo size≠ differs | 35 × 45 mm | 26 × 32 mm |
| Digital photo (px) | 600 × 750 px | The authority does not publish this detail |
| Head height≠ differs | 64–76% (29–34 mm) | 60–75% |
| Background≠ differs | Plain light background in cream or grey tone without patterns. | Uniform white background. |
| Glasses | No reflections or tinting; remove glasses if there is a risk of reflections. | No dark glasses or objects obstructing identification. |
| Expression | Neutral expression; the applicant must be recognisable. | Neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open. |
| Head covering | Religious or medical reasons only; must not cover the facial oval. | Religious reasons only; must not cover the facial oval. |
| Pose | Full face, filling as much of the frame as possible without cropping. | Full face, open and clearly identifiable. |
| Lighting / shadows | No digital enhancements, shadows, or print artefacts. | Shadows, overexposure, and reflections not permitted. |
| Attire | Neutral clothing without uniform or distracting accessories. | The facial oval, including eyebrows, eyes, nose, mouth, and chin, must be clearly visible. |
| Authority | HM Passport Office (Home Office), GOV.UK | Ministerio del Interior / Policía Nacional |
| Last verified | 1 Oct 2026 | 1 Oct 2026 |
Read each rule set in full
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the same photo for UK and Spain?
No — the print sizes differ. UK requires 35 × 45 mm, while Spain requires 26 × 32 mm, so one print cannot satisfy both specifications. You will need a separate photo set for each document.
Which photo is larger — UK or Spain?
UK uses the larger photo: 35 × 45 mm versus 26 × 32 mm for Spain.
What background colour do UK and Spain require?
UK requires: Cream or light grey. Spain requires: Plain white.