UK ETA guidance
UK ETA photo requirements
The ETA process needs a separate facial photograph. That photo has to satisfy the current GOV.UK image rules, so it is worth checking the details before you start the application.
This page focuses on the facial photograph, not the passport photo page, so you can prepare the image that is actually checked against the ETA rules.
Important disclosure
Independent service
ETAApply is an independent application assistance service and is not affiliated with the UK Government. The official government application service is available through GOV.UK. ETAApply provides additional application assistance and support.
Official GOV.UK links
Check the official guidance
Image quality
The photo must be clear, in focus, in colour and well lit
GOV.UK says the digital photo must be clear and in focus, in colour and taken in a well-lit setting. It must not be altered by software or filters.
A blurred, dark or edited image is more likely to be delayed or rejected, so the safest approach is to take a fresh photo rather than reuse a poor one.
- Clear and in focus
- In colour and well lit
- No filters or software alterations
File format
Use the digital photo format GOV.UK expects
The current guidance says the image should be at least 600 pixels wide and 750 pixels tall, at least 50KB and no more than 6MB, in JPG or JPEG format and vertically orientated.
The photo must not be mirrored or flipped, and it should show the face photo itself rather than a picture of another picture.
What it must show
Keep the photo plain and uncluttered
The photo should contain no other objects or people, should be taken against a plain light-coloured background and should show the head, shoulders and upper body.
The facial features need to be clearly visible, with the person facing the camera. Avoid shadows, red eye, hair over the eyes and unsuitable glasses or glare.
- Plain light background
- No other people or objects
- Head, shoulders and upper body visible
Children and babies
Special rules apply for younger travellers
Children under 6 do not have to look directly at the camera or keep a plain expression, and children under 1 do not have to have their eyes open.
Babies must be alone in the photo, without toys or dummies, and any supporting hand must not be visible. GOV.UK also suggests laying infants under one on a plain light-coloured sheet and photographing them from above.
Practical reminder
Do not confuse the face photo with the passport image
The ETA process needs a face photo. The passport photo page is a different part of the application and should not be treated as a substitute for the face image.
If you are unsure which image you are uploading, stop and check the instructions before submitting the application.
Frequently asked questions
Questions about UK ETA photo requirements
Can I use a photo with filters or editing?
What size does the ETA photo need to be?
Can a baby be photographed with a toy or dummy?
Do children have the same photo rules as adults?
Is the passport photo page enough?
Related UK ETA guides