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United Kingdom vs India visa photo — full spec comparison
Side-by-side comparison of visa photo requirements for United Kingdom and India, sourced from each issuing authority.
In short
United Kingdom requires 35 × 45 mm while India requires 51 × 51 mm. The two specifications are NOT interchangeable — a photo accepted for one will be rejected by the other.
Can you use the same photo for both?
No — the print sizes differ. United Kingdom requires 35 × 45 mm, while India requires 51 × 51 mm, so one print cannot satisfy both specifications. You will need a separate photo set for each document.
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 | India |
|---|---|---|
| Photo size | 35 × 45 mm | 51 × 51 mm |
| Digital photo (px) | 600×750 px | Not specified by the issuing authority |
| File size limit | Not specified by the issuing authority | 10–300 KB |
| File format | Not specified by the issuing authority | JPEG |
| Head height | 64–76% (29–34 mm) | 49–69% (25–35 mm) |
| Background | Plain neutral background with clear contrast to the face. | White or off-white background. |
| Glasses | Eyes must be fully visible; no tinted lenses or strong reflections. | Glasses prohibited. |
| Expression | Neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open. | Neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open. |
| Head covering | Not specified by the issuing authority | Religious reasons only; must not cover the facial oval. |
| Pose | Face strictly straight; entire head visible; no other people or objects in the frame. | Full face, head centred, no tilt or rotation. |
| Lighting / shadows | Photo must be clear, well-lit, and without digital alterations. | Shadows on the face and background not permitted. |
| Authority | UK Visas and Immigration | Government of India / Bureau of Immigration |
| Verification | Official — general | Official — general |
| Last verified | 2026-05-17 | 2026-05-17 |
Read each rule set in full
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the same photo for United Kingdom and India?
No — the print sizes differ. United Kingdom requires 35 × 45 mm, while India requires 51 × 51 mm, so one print cannot satisfy both specifications. You will need a separate photo set for each document.
Which photo is larger — United Kingdom or India?
India uses the larger photo: 51 × 51 mm versus 35 × 45 mm for United Kingdom.
What background colour do United Kingdom and India require?
United Kingdom requires: Plain neutral. India requires: White or off-white.