Getting Your UK Electronic Travel Authorisation Photo Ready
You need a clear digital photo for your UK Electronic Travel Authorisation. Here is how to prepare your image correctly before you apply.
Size and Digital Requirements
UKVI’s digital photo guidance gives minimum pixel dimensions, but it does not set a print size[1]. If you want a print for your records, 35×45 mm is a common crop size; it is not an official ETA photo size.
The digital file must be a JPG or JPEG, at least 600 pixels wide and 750 pixels tall, and no larger than 6 MB[1]. The minimum file size is 50 KB[1]. Keeping your file within these limits helps you avoid upload errors when you submit your application.
Background and Lighting Setup
Use a plain light-coloured background that contrasts clearly with you[1]. GOV.UK does not specify an exact colour. Keep other people and objects out of the photo[1].
Take the photo in a well-lit room. Avoid shadows on your face or behind you[1].
Expression, Eyes, and Glasses
Have a plain expression, keep your mouth closed, and look straight at the camera with your eyes open and visible[1].
Do not wear glasses unless you have to. If you do, they must not be sunglasses or tinted, and your eyes must be clearly visible without frames, glare, reflections, or shadows[1]. Head coverings are allowed for religious or medical reasons[1].
Rules for Children and Infants
Taking photos of young children requires patience and a few adjustments. For children under 6, direct gaze and plain expression are not required[2][1].
Children under 1 do not need to have their eyes open. They should lie on a plain light-coloured sheet, and you should take the photo from above[1].
How to Take and Submit Your Photo
You take a face photo as part of the ETA app or online application[2]. UKVI recommends asking another person to take your photo[1].
Face the camera and look straight at it. Keep your head, shoulders and upper body in the photo[1].
Common Reasons Photos Are Refused
The photo must be clear and in focus, in colour, and taken in a well-lit room. It must not have shadows on your face or behind you[1].
Do not wear sunglasses or tinted glasses. If you need glasses, your eyes must remain visible without frames, glare, reflections or shadows[1]. Keep hair out of your eyes[1]. Your file must be at least 50 KB and no more than 6 MB[1].
Checking Your Photo Before Uploading
Before submitting the photo, check that your face is clear and in focus, and that your head, shoulders and upper body are visible[1].
Check that the photo is in colour and was taken in a well-lit room[1].
Tips for Taking the Photo at Home
Take the photo in a well-lit room and make sure there are no shadows on your face or behind you[1].
You can use a phone or tablet to take the photo[1].
Frequently asked questions
What size should the UK ETA photo be?
Can I wear glasses in my ETA photo?
Do not wear glasses unless you have to. If you do, they cannot be sunglasses or tinted, and your eyes must be clearly visible[1].
What background color do I need?
Use a plain light-coloured background that contrasts clearly with you. GOV.UK does not specify an exact colour[1].
What are the file size limits for the digital upload?
Your JPG or JPEG file must be at least 600 pixels wide and 750 pixels tall, and no larger than 6 MB[1].