TravelPassport OfficeHM Passport Office has sent out guidance08:31, 05 Jun 2026Updated 08:32, 05 Jun 2026People who need a passport to travel overseas this summer have been issued guidance to help make sure their application is not rejected. British citizens need a valid travel document - usually a passport - to pass through the borders of other countries.‌With millions preparing to head off as the summer holidays approach, His Majesty's Passport Office (HM Passport Office) has posted on social media to advise people that they must ensure their application is submitted correctly. It warns on its website that while passports are usually turned around within three weeks it can take longer if there are issues which means additional information is needed to process the application.‌It can also take longer if incorrect information is submitted. One big issue which can arise is when the photograph is incorrectly taken.‌In the past most people would get specialist pictures taken either in a photo booth or with a passport photo service but today, with almost everyone having access to a digital camera, people are more likely to take their own. However this means people must also know the exact format the picture needs to take or the application will be rejected or delayed and a new photograph sent.There are strict rules on photographs that can be used. Posting on X, formerly Twitter, HM Passport Office said: "A quick checklist for your digital passport photo:‌Taken in the last monthPlain backgroundNo objects or other peopleNo red eye or shadowsHM Passport Office has previously taken to X to warn travellers : "Your passport is your most important travel document - it's worth taking your time to get right! Before submitting your application check your photo meets all requirements; all personal details are correct; supporting documents are ready; payment details are accurate."The government website has additional information on exactly how a photograph must be taken. It explains: "You need a digital photo to apply for a passport online. You must get a new photo when you get a new passport, even if your appearance has not changed.‌"Your photo must have been taken in the last month. Your application will be delayed if your photos do not meet the rules."Content cannot be displayed without consentIt says you can do these with by going to a photo booth or shop before applying for your passport or by taking one using your own device during your passport application. However it warns: "Photos from a booth or shop are more likely to be approved than a photo taken using your own device."‌It sets out further rules. It said your photo must be:clear and in focusin colourunaltered by computer softwareat least 600 pixels wide and 750 pixels tallat least 50KB and no more than 10MBThe digital photo must:contain no other objects or peoplebe taken against a plain light-coloured backgroundbe in clear contrast to the backgroundnot have ‘red eye’‌If you’re using a photo taken on your own device, include your head, shoulders and upper body. Do not crop your photo - it will be done for you. In your photo you must:be facing forwards and looking straight at the camerahave a plain expression and your mouth closedhave your eyes open and visiblenot have hair in front of your eyesnot have a head covering (unless it’s for religious or medical reasons)not have anything covering your facenot have any shadows on your face or behind youIt adds: "Do not wear glasses in your photo unless you have to do so. If you must wear glasses, they cannot be sunglasses or tinted glasses, and you must make sure your eyes are not covered by the frames or any glare, reflection or shadow."Article continues belowThe rules are slightly different for babies and young children. They must be on their own in the picture and babies must not be holding toys or using dummies.It adds: "Children under 6 do not have to be looking directly at the camera or have a plain expression. Children under one do not have to have their eyes open. You can support their head with your hand, but your hand must not be visible in the photo."Children under one should lie on a plain light-coloured sheet. Take the photo from above."Choose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌Passport OfficeTravelAir travelTravel TipsHolidaysFamily holidays