Passport photo background color
The background color depends on the country. Here is what the US and the UK ask for, and how to get it right.
- Free
- No sign-up
- Stays on your device
Drop your photo here
or paste an image. JPG, PNG and WebP work.
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More photo types and guides
Before you take the photo
- Face the camera with a neutral expression, mouth closed and both eyes open.
- Use even light with no shadows on your face or behind you, and no glasses.
- Ask someone to take it from about arm's length with the camera at eye level. Selfies are often rejected.
- Print at 100% (actual size), without "fit to page".
US and UK at a glance
- US passport: plain white or off-white, with no shadows.
- UK passport: plain light grey or cream. White is not accepted.
Why the color matters
A background with shadows, patterns or the wrong color is one of the common reasons for a photo to be sent back. A plain, even background also helps the authority see the outline of your head and hair.
How to get it with this tool
Choose US or UK in the tool, upload a portrait and it replaces the background with the correct color. A photo with an even, plain wall behind you gives the cleanest edges. Check the cut-out around your hair in the preview, and adjust Cut-out edge if needed.
Rules for other countries differ. Always check the official page of the authority that will receive your photo.
Questions
Can I use a white background for a UK passport?
No. UK photos need a plain light grey or cream background. The tool uses light grey for UK photos.
What if my background has shadows?
Retake the photo with light falling evenly from the front and a plain wall a short distance behind you. Shadows are hard to hide and may be flagged.
Is my photo uploaded anywhere?
No. Your photo is processed on your device. The face detection model files are downloaded once when you first use the tool, but your photo is never sent to a server.
Will my photo be accepted?
The tool follows the published size and head-height rules, but the issuing authority makes the final decision. Check the estimates, compare against the official rules, and retake the photo if it is blurry, tilted or has shadows.
Which countries are supported?
The US and the UK for now. More countries will be added after checking each official specification.