Note: Passport photo requirements may change at any time. Always verify with the official Australian Passport Office before submitting your application.
Size & Technical Requirements
What size does an Australian passport photo need to be?
Exactly 35 mm wide × 45 mm tall. The head height (chin to crown) must be 32–36 mm. Minimum 300 DPI for print — approximately 413 × 531 pixels at that size.
Can I submit a digital photo for my Australian passport?
Yes, for online applications. The file should be JPEG, minimum 413×531 pixels, under 10 MB, sRGB colour space, with no visible compression artefacts.
Can I take a passport photo with my phone?
Yes. Most modern smartphones produce more than sufficient resolution. The key is correct framing, white background, even lighting, and no glasses.
Rules & What's Allowed
Can I wear glasses in my Australian passport photo?
No. Glasses of any type have been prohibited since 2016 — prescription, reading, sunglasses, or fashion frames. All applicants must remove glasses.
What background colour is required?
Plain white or off-white. No patterns, textures, shadows, or colours other than white are permitted.
Can I smile in my passport photo?
No. A neutral expression is required — relaxed face, mouth closed, both eyes open and looking directly at the camera.
Can I wear a hat or head covering?
No, unless worn for genuine religious or medical reasons. Religious head coverings must leave the full face (chin to crown) clearly visible with no shadows.
Can I wear makeup?
Yes, everyday natural makeup is acceptable. Heavy theatrical makeup that significantly alters your appearance is not.
Can I take my own passport photo at home?
Yes, provided it meets all requirements. Our AI tool handles background removal, sizing to 35×45 mm, and 300 DPI output automatically.
Baby & Children
Does a baby need their own passport photo in Australia?
Yes. Every applicant including newborns requires their own passport and their own photo. There are no shared-parent passports.
Can a baby's eyes be closed in a passport photo?
No. Both eyes must be open and visible. APO officers allow some practical leniency for very young infants provided both eyes are clearly visible.
Can a parent's hand be visible in a baby's passport photo?
No. No part of another person should appear in the photo. The background must be plain white throughout.
Validity & Rejections
How recent does my passport photo need to be?
Taken within the last 6 months and must be a current likeness.
What are the most common rejection reasons?
Glasses present, non-white background, head too small or too large, shadows on face or background, eyes not fully visible, photo older than 6 months, smiling expression, blurry or low-resolution image.
Does this service guarantee my photo will be accepted?
No service can guarantee acceptance — final decisions rest with the Australian Passport Office. We offer a money-back guarantee if your photo is rejected for reasons related to our processing. Requirements may change — verify with the official APO before submitting.