Preparing Your Norfolk Island Australian Passport Photo
Get the right size and details for your Australian passport photo for Norfolk Island residents. Follow official rules to prepare your prints correctly[1][2].
Official Size and Dimensions
The photo must be 35–40 mm wide and 45–50 mm high. Face height, measured from chin to crown, must be 32–36 mm[1]. A 35×45 mm crop fits within the permitted photo-size range.
Keep your face centered and make sure the photo meets the size and face-height requirements[1]. Measuring your printed photo with a small metric ruler is a good habit before you submit your application.
Background and Lighting Setup
Use a plain white or light grey background that contrasts with your face[1].
Good lighting is just as important as the background colour when you take your photo. Face a bright window to let natural light illuminate your face evenly from the front. Avoid overhead lights that cast harsh shadows under your nose, chin, or eyes. Having someone else take the picture while you maintain a straight posture will help you achieve clear, shadow-free results.
Taking the Photo at Home
The Passport Office recommends using a professional photo provider[1].
Keep your shoulders square and look directly into the lens with a relaxed posture. Take several test shots so you can check the distance, the lighting, and the framing before you select the final image for cropping.
Expression, Glasses, and Headwear Rules
If you are over 3, face the camera straight on with eyes open and a neutral expression. Keep hair from obscuring the edges of your face[1].
You must remove glasses unless you cannot remove them for medical reasons. In that case, the frames must not obscure your eyes and the lenses must have no reflection[1]. A plain religious head covering is allowed if it leaves your face visible from chin to forehead, including both face edges[1].
Rules for Children and Infants
For children under 3 years old, the mouth may be open. No one else can be visible in the photo[1].
No one else can be visible in the photo[1].
Printing Your Photos Correctly
You need two photos. They must be less than 6 months old, good-quality colour prints made using dye sublimation, and printed on heavy-weight glossy paper of at least 200 gsm[1].
The photo must be 35–40 mm wide and 45–50 mm high[1].
Common Reasons Photos Are Refused
The photo must have uniform lighting with no shadows or reflections; your head must not be tilted, and anyone over 3 must have a neutral expression[1]. Glasses are not allowed unless they cannot be removed for medical reasons[1].
Check that the head is not tilted and the lighting is even, with no shadows or reflections[1].
Frequently asked questions
What size should my Australian passport photo be?
The photo must be 35×45 mm, with a head height of 32 to 36 mm from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head[1].
Can I wear glasses in my passport photo?
Glasses are conditional, but it is strongly recommended to take them off to avoid glare and reflections that can cause rejection[1].
What background colour is allowed?
You must use a plain white or light grey background that contrasts with your face[1].
How many photos do I need to submit?
You need to supply two identical, recent, high-quality colour prints on glossy paper[2].
Are there special rules for babies?
For children under 3 years old, the mouth may be open, and no other person can appear in the photo[1].