Size and Dimensions
Q: What size does an Australian passport photo need to be? A: 45 mm × 35 mm (height × width).
Q: How big should the head be? A: The head (chin to crown) must measure 32–36 mm in the photo.
Q: Can I use a 2×2 inch photo from the US? A: No — 2×2 inches (51×51 mm) is the wrong format for Australian passports.
Background Rules
Q: What background do I need? A: Plain white or very light grey. No patterns, shadows, or objects.
Q: Can the background be cream or off-white? A: No — the background must be clearly white or very light grey.
Q: Can I use an AI tool to change my background? A: Yes — our tool removes and replaces backgrounds automatically to the required standard.
Expression and Appearance
Q: Can I smile? A: Only a neutral expression is accepted. No broad smile or open mouth.
Q: Can I wear glasses? A: No — glasses are not permitted in Australian passport photos (without medical exception).
Q: Can I wear a hijab? A: Yes, if your face remains fully visible from forehead to chin and ear to ear.
Q: Can children smile? A: Minor expression variations are tolerated for infants, but the rules still apply broadly.
Photo Quality
Q: Can I use a photo taken on a phone? A: Yes — any modern smartphone camera is sufficient if technique is correct.
Q: Does the photo need to be colour? A: Yes — black and white photos are not accepted.
Q: Can I use a selfie? A: Not recommended — selfie cameras distort faces. Use the rear camera at eye level.
Online Services and Pricing
Q: How much does an online Australian passport photo cost? A: Our service starts from A$17.99 for a digital download with instant delivery.
Q: What do I get? A: A compliant JPEG + print-ready PDF (6 photos on A4) + 30-day re-download access + 100% acceptance guarantee.
Q: Is there a free option? A: We offer a free watermarked preview. The paid download (from A$17.99) is required for submission.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Upload it to our free Australian passport photo checker — it validates all DFAT requirements and shows any issues.
Not necessarily — visa photos often have different requirements. Check the specific visa requirements.
For online applications, a digital file is sufficient. For paper applications, you need a printed 45×35 mm photo.
DFAT is the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade — the Australian government body that issues passports. Their photo requirements must be met for your application to succeed.
Related Tools
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Use our free tools to check if your photo meets Australia requirements, find photo booths near you, or set up renewal reminders.

