British Virgin Islands Passport Photo Requirements
If you are applying for a British Overseas Territory Citizen passport, you need two identical, printed photos that match strict official rules. Here is everything you need to know to get your photo right.
Official Size and Photo Rules
For a British Overseas Territory Citizen passport, the photo guide specifies a size of 35 by 45 millimetres (about 1.38 by 1.77 inches). It requires two identical, recent, professionally printed colour photographs, taken within the last month[1].
The guide does not set a head-height measurement[1]. Keep your face centered and looking toward the camera when you take the photo.
Background and Lighting Requirements
The guide requires a plain cream or light grey background with no dark shadows[1]. It does not specify that the background must be free of every pattern, texture, or object, or say that uneven lighting will cause rejection.
Good lighting is essential for a clear and acceptable passport photo. Stand facing a large window during daylight hours to get soft, natural illumination on your face. Avoid using direct flash if it creates harsh shadows behind your head. Turn off any overhead lights that cast deep shadows under your eyes, nose, or chin.
Facial Expression, Mouth, and Glasses
The guide requires a neutral expression and a closed mouth[1].
You may wear glasses if they do not cause reflection or glare[1].
Head Coverings and Children's Passport Photos
The guide permits head coverings for religious or medical reasons[1].
Children use the child passport process. The guide requires two identical photos and a countersignatory to sign and date one photo[1]. It does not give separate infant dimensions.
Paper Quality and Submission Rules
The guide requires two printed colour photographs on plain white photographic paper[1].
You can prepare your photo easily by using the tool above to crop your image to the correct dimensions. Once you crop the image, you can arrange it on a sheet. Print this sheet as an ordinary 4 by 6 inch photo at a local kiosk to get physical prints that match the required size specifications.
Step-by-Step Guide to Taking Your Photo
Setting up your photo session correctly at home saves you time and effort. Place your camera or smartphone on a steady surface or tripod at your exact eye level. Stand about one to one and a half metres away from the lens. Never use the front-facing selfie camera because it distorts facial proportions.
Always ask a friend or family member to operate the camera for you. Check that your shoulders are square and your posture is upright. Take several test shots to verify your lighting and background before you choose the final picture. You can then upload your chosen image into the tool above to format it correctly.
Common Reasons Why Photos Are Refused
The guide requires a neutral expression, a closed mouth, and photos taken within the last month[1]. It does not list these other issues as grounds for refusal or say that refusal is immediate.
The guide specifies plain white photographic paper[1]. It does not specify a surface finish or say that checking for printer lines or pixelation will prevent delays.
Frequently asked questions
What size do I need for a British Virgin Islands passport photo?
The official size is 35 by 45 millimetres, or 1.38 by 1.77 inches[1].
What background colour is required?
You must use a plain cream or light grey background with no dark shadows[1].
Can I wear glasses in my passport photo?
Glasses are allowed conditionally, but they must not cause any reflection or glare[1].
Are digital submissions accepted?
No, you must supply two identical, professionally printed colour photographs on plain white photographic paper[1].
What are the rules for children's passport photos?
Children follow the child passport process, which requires two identical photos and a countersignatory to sign and date one photo[1].