Not necessarily. The gov.uk upload runs its own automated check and shows this warning while still letting you continue. Work through the steps on this page and compare the photo with the official rule on the document page before you re-upload.

Will SurePassportPhoto fix this?

We prepare the file to the official size, head height and background for gov.uk passport application (HM Passport Office), and our checklist flags the lighting and framing faults behind this message. The portal and its staff make the final decision; if they reject a photo we made, our guarantee covers you.

Your photo might not meet the rules

"Your photo might not meet the rules" is a message shown by gov.uk passport application (HM Passport Office). The gov.uk upload runs its own automated check and shows this warning while still letting you continue. 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.

Why it happens

The gov.uk upload runs its own automated check and shows this warning while still letting you continue. HMPO staff make the final decision after you submit.

What to do

1.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.If every item passes, continue the application with the same photo.
3.If the checklist flags lighting or shadows, re-shoot facing a window rather than editing the file.

Official wording

might not meet the rules

Source: https://www.gov.uk/photos-for-passports

Traced to: spec gb/passport-digital portalQuirks

Affected documents

UK Passport Photo (digital, online application)

Frequently asked questions

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.