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USA vs United Kingdom visa photo — full spec comparison
Side-by-side comparison of visa photo requirements for USA and United Kingdom, sourced from each issuing authority.
In short
USA requires 51 × 51 mm while United Kingdom requires 35 × 45 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. USA requires 51 × 51 mm, while United Kingdom requires 35 × 45 mm, so one print cannot satisfy both specifications. You will need a separate photo set for each document. The digital uploads also differ: USA expects 600×600 px, United Kingdom expects 600×750 px.
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 | USA | United Kingdom |
|---|---|---|
| Photo size | 51 × 51 mm | 35 × 45 mm |
| Digital photo (px) | 600×600 px | 600×750 px |
| Head height | 50–69% | 64–76% (29–34 mm) |
| Background | Plain white or off-white background without shadows or foreign objects. | Plain neutral background with clear contrast to the face. |
| Glasses | Glasses prohibited, except for rare medical exceptions. | Eyes must be fully visible; no tinted lenses or strong reflections. |
| Expression | Neutral expression, mouth closed, both eyes open. | Neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open. |
| Head covering | Religious reasons only; must not cover the facial oval. | Not specified by the issuing authority |
| Pose | Strictly full face, no tilt or rotation. | Face strictly straight; entire head visible; no other people or objects in the frame. |
| Lighting / shadows | Even light, no shadows, reflections, or digital alterations to appearance. | Photo must be clear, well-lit, and without digital alterations. |
| Attire | Ordinary everyday clothing; uniforms not permitted, except daily religious dress. | Not specified by the issuing authority |
| Authority | U.S. Department of State | UK Visas and Immigration |
| Verification | Official — exact | Official — general |
| Last verified | 2026-05-21 | 2026-05-17 |
Read each rule set in full
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the same photo for USA and United Kingdom?
No — the print sizes differ. USA requires 51 × 51 mm, while United Kingdom requires 35 × 45 mm, so one print cannot satisfy both specifications. You will need a separate photo set for each document. The digital uploads also differ: USA expects 600×600 px, United Kingdom expects 600×750 px.
Which photo is larger — USA or United Kingdom?
USA uses the larger photo: 51 × 51 mm versus 35 × 45 mm for United Kingdom.
What background colour do USA and United Kingdom require?
USA requires: White or off-white. United Kingdom requires: Plain neutral.