UK Passport Photo Clothing Rules (2026): What to Wear and What to Avoid

General Clothing Guidelines

HMPO does not specify exactly what you must wear, but your clothing should:

• Contrast with the background
• Not obscure your face or neck
• Avoid religious or cultural exceptions unless applicable
• Be ordinary, everyday clothing

Colours to Avoid

Since UK passport photos require a light grey or cream background:

• Avoid white or very light colours — may blend with the background
• Avoid light grey — matches the required background colour
• Avoid cream or beige — can merge with cream backgrounds

Dark colours (navy, black, dark green) generally work best as they create clear contrast.

Necklines and Collar Rules

Your photo should show:

• Your face clearly
• Part of your shoulders

Avoid:

• High collars that cover your chin
• Turtlenecks or polo necks pulled up high
• Scarves wrapped around your face

A regular shirt, t-shirt, or blouse with a normal neckline is ideal.

Headwear and Hair Accessories

Generally not allowed:

• Hats
• Caps
• Headbands that cover your forehead
• Hair accessories that obscure your face

Allowed for religious or medical reasons:

• Hijabs, turbans, or other religious head coverings
• Must not obscure your face from forehead to chin
• Face must be fully visible

Uniforms and Formal Wear

• Military or police uniforms — generally allowed but check current guidance
• Suits and formal wear — perfectly acceptable
• Work uniforms — usually fine unless they include headwear

There's no requirement to dress formally, but smart casual often photographs well.

Jewellery and Piercings

Small jewellery is generally acceptable:

• Earrings (unless very large and distracting)
• Necklaces (if they don't cover your neck)
• Piercings (unless they obscure facial features)

Avoid anything that creates strong reflections or shadows.