What happens if passport photo is rejected UK?
Isabella Harris
Updated on January 09, 2026
If the photo is the only problem with your application, it's likely that the application will be put on hold until the NPIC receives an acceptable image. The agency will send a letter explaining the reason for the hold and provide instructions for mailing in a new photo.
How do I know if my passport photo is acceptable UK?
For passport photos:
- eyes must be open and clearly visible, with no flash reflections and no 'red eye'
- facial expression must be neutral (neither frowning nor smiling), with the mouth closed.
- photos must show both edges of the face clearly.
- photos must show a full front view of face and shoulders, squared to the camera.
How do I know if my passport photo is acceptable?
Test your photo using the online photo checkerThe online photo checker checks your photo against the requirements and tells you whether it is suitable to use in your passport. It will give you an error message if your photo does not meet the requirements.
Can they reject my passport photo?
When it comes to an online passport photo, you should make sure that your face is entirely neutral. So, it would be best if you kept your face facing forward, making sure that the lips remain pressed together. If you pose for the passport photo in any way, then it will be rejected.What happens if your passport is rejected?
The government fees will not be returned to you if the passport is denied. The typical time to receive a passport through the post office is now 6-8 weeks if you use routine processing. However, if there are any mistakes with your application, your passport can be denied or suspended and held up indefinitely.How to make sure your passport photo is not rejected
Why does my passport photo keep being rejected?
The background has to be completely plain cream, white or pale grey – and well lit. Another common cause of passport photograph rejection is if there are “alien” objects in the background (shadows or other distractions) or that the image is overexposed and too bright, making detail hard to read.Can I apply passport again if rejected?
If your application was rejected owing to a lack of police verification or inaccurate documents, you have three days to fix the error and reapply. You can write to the RPO or file a grievance if you disagree with the reason for rejection or if the reasons are unclear.How do I know if my passport application was denied?
Additionally, you can call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 (or 1-888-874-7793 if you're hearing-impaired). The office is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. EST, and normally Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. EST, but Saturdays are currently not listed.Can you edit your passport photo?
You must take care to capture your image in front of a plain white background. Also, remember that you are not allowed to edit a passport photo, as the applicant must look 100% natural, with no retouching.Can you wear a nose ring in a passport photo UK?
Passport photo face piercingsIn the government guidelines, it says that low-key piercings will be accepted in your passport photos, such as earrings, nose rings or lip rings.