Independent service, not a government website.

gov.uk passport application (HM Passport Office): known issues

gov.uk passport application (HM Passport Office) is the portal in the United Kingdom used for UK Passport Photo. We list 5 messages it shows when a photo upload fails, why each appears and what to change before uploading again, each traced to the portal's own wording or a verified user report. The upload runs an automated check, then HMPO staff review the photo.

Official page: https://www.gov.uk/photos-for-passports

Messages and what to do

  1. Your photo might not meet the rules

    First step: Compare the photo against our checklist: plain light background, no shadows on the face or behind you, eyes open and visible, nothing in front of the eyes.

  2. Poor quality: reflections on face

    First step: Take the glasses off for the photo if you can.

  3. Your eyes seem to be closed

    First step: Light the face from the front at eye level so the eyes are not in shadow.

  4. This doesn't look like a digital photo

    First step: Upload the file straight from the camera with no filters, smoothing or background swap.

  5. Photo only fair, therefore chance of rejection

    First step: Check the face is in clear contrast to the background and the photo is in focus.

Documents submitted through this portal

We are an independent service, not a government website. Applying for a passport or visa is done with your government; we only prepare the photo.