Summer is on the horizon and holiday plans are well under way for many of us. If you’re about to jet off abroad, your passport will probably be at the top of your to-do list. If yours has expired, it’s time to think about getting a new one and you know what that means. Yes, that’s right, time for a new photo. When it comes to taking a passport photo in the UK, the rules might seem a bit strict and there’s a good reason for that. Officials use passport photos to verify your identity, so clarity is key.
With over 40 million glasses wearers in the UK, one of the questions at the front of holidaymakers’ minds is whether you can wear glasses in a UK passport photo. The short answer? No, you can’t. However, there are some exceptions which we’ll explain in more detail later.
UK passport photo requirements on glasses
According to GOV.UK, you must not wear glasses in your passport photo. This rule is in place to help reduce issues with light reflection, glare and shadows that can obscure the visibility of your eyes, which is essential for security reasons so airport officers can recognise your face easily.
❌ What’s not allowed:
Glasses of any kind, unless you have a medical exemption. This includes:
Prescription & plano lenses:
Even clear lenses can reflect light or obscure your eyes.
Tinted lenses:
These are strictly prohibited.
Transition lenses:
Obvious, but worth highlighting.
What happens if you submit a passport photo with glasses?
If your photo doesn’t meet the official guidelines, which includes wearing glasses, then officials will delay or reject your passport application. This means more waiting, more paperwork and possibly missed travel plans. It’s just not worth the risk!
When are glasses permitted in a passport photo?
There is only one exception to the no-glasses rule. This only applies in rare cases if you can’t remove your glasses for medical reasons. If this applies to you, passport officials will require you to provide a signed medical statement from your doctor or optometrist.
If you do wear glasses in your passport photo, follow these guidelines:
- Make sure your eyes are clearly visible.
- Your glasses shouldn’t cover any part of your eyes or eyebrows.
- Check the glasses aren’t creating any shadows or distortions.
- Avoid any glare or reflections in the lenses.
- Ensure the camera doesn’t have a flash feature.
- Don’t wear thick or large frames as they will cover more of your face and cast shadows.
Tips for a valid UK passport photo
Here’s a quick checklist to make sure you’re following the UK passport photo rules:
- Face the camera directly with a neutral expression. No smiling!
- Make sure to include your head and upper shoulders in the photo.
- Wear comfortable, everyday clothing. Officials do not allow costumes or uniforms of any kind.
- Apply only neutral-coloured makeup so your facial features and skin tone are distinguishable.
- Move any hair out of your face.
- Ensure your eyes are open and visible. The photo must not have ‘red eye’.
- Use a plain, cream or grey-coloured background and make sure there are no objects behind you.
- Make sure the lighting is even, with no shadows on your face or behind you.
- Do not wear head coverings, unless for religious or medical reasons.
- The photo must be in colour and taken within the last month.
The bottom line
Unless you have a medical reason (with documentation to back it up), it’s best to avoid wearing glasses in your UK passport photo if you can. Not just because of the strict guidelines that advise against them, but also the challenges of capturing a clear, identifiable photo. Wearing no glasses speeds up the passport application process and ensures officials can accept your photo without any challenges.
Just remember, when you’re taking your passport photo – relax! Be true to yourself. Keep your clothing casual and your makeup natural.
Need help taking the perfect shot? Many photo booths and online passport photo services now follow UK government standards.
