Last Updated: June 2026
Complete specifications for Australian passport and travel document photos including size, background, expression, and commencement certification requirements from the Department of Home Affairs.
Complete official photo specifications. Meet every requirement to avoid costly application delays.
| Requirement | Specification | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Photo Size | 35×45mm | Printed on photo-quality paper |
| Head Size | 32–36mm | Measured from chin to crown |
| Background | Light plain (white or light grey) | No patterns, shadows, or colour tints |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed | Eyes open, looking at camera |
| Glasses | Not Allowed | Removed since 2015 guidelines |
| Head Coverings | Not Allowed | Except for religious reasons with letter |
| Recency | Within last 6 months | Must look like your current appearance |
| Color | Color Required | No black & white accepted |
| Quantity | 2 identical photos | Both copies submitted with application |
| Commencement | Certifier signs one photo | Must write certification on reverse |
| Orientation | Portrait (upright) | No landscape photos |
| DPI | 600 DPI minimum | For print submissions |
An approved person (doctor, lawyer, teacher, accountant) must certify one photo by signing the back and stating it's a true likeness.
Australia's checkers are strict about facial shadows. Use two light sources or face a bright window for perfectly even lighting.
Head must be 32–36mm — a 4mm tolerance. Our tool shows exactly where your head falls within the acceptable range.
Different visa types may have slightly different requirements. The 35×45mm format applies to most Australian passports and tourist visas.
White or very light grey backgrounds are accepted. Mid-grey or coloured backgrounds will cause rejection. The AI sets the exact correct shade.
For standard passport applications, submit two physical photos. Online passport renewals (for eligible Australians) may accept digital uploads.
Follow these steps to generate a compliant, print-ready Australia passport photo in minutes.
Stand against a white or light-coloured wall with even lighting. Avoid shadows behind you. Use a phone camera in portrait orientation at eye level.
Choose 'Australia' from the country list. The tool sets 35×45mm dimensions and applies a light plain background meeting Department of Home Affairs standards.
The AI checks head size (32–36mm), eye openness, expression, and background cleanliness. Review and accept, then download your compliant photo.
Print two identical photos on photo paper. Have your commencement (certifier) sign the back of one photo: 'I certify that this is a true photograph of [full name]' with their signature, date, and occupation.
Answers to the most frequently asked questions about Australia passport photo requirements.
Applying for visas across multiple countries? Check exact requirements for each.
Key details about Australia passport processing, fees, and where to submit your application.
Run through every item before printing and submitting. Each point is a potential rejection reason.
These are the most frequent reasons for passport photo rejection. Avoid them to ensure first-time acceptance.
The certifier must write the full statement ('I certify this is a true photograph of [full name]'), sign it, date it, and add their name, occupation, and phone number. Partial certification is not accepted.
Not everyone can certify a passport photo. The certifier must be from an approved profession (doctor, lawyer, accountant, teacher, pharmacist, police officer). Family members and friends cannot certify unless they hold a qualifying professional position.
Even subtle shadows behind the head cause rejection. Stand at least 2 feet from the background wall. Our tool removes backgrounds automatically for a clean result.
The 32–36mm head size range is carefully verified. Photos where the subject stood too far from or too close to the camera fall outside this range.
All glasses are prohibited in Australian passport photos. This was updated in 2015 and strictly enforced. Remove all eyewear before photographing.
Low-resolution prints look blurry and are rejected. Use a 600 DPI setting when printing or use a professional photo printing service.
Applying for multiple passports or visas? See how Australia's photo requirements compare to other popular destinations.
| Country | Photo Size | Background | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 2×2" (51×51mm) | White/off-white background | Photo within 6 months |
| United Kingdom | 35×45mm | Light grey/cream background | Photo within 1 month |
| Canada | 50×70mm | White background | Guarantor signature required |
| New Zealand | 35×45mm | White/light grey background | Photo within 6 months |
Requirements updated June 2026. Always verify with the official issuing authority before submitting your application.
Our network of professional photographers can take your passport photo in person with guaranteed compliance for Australia applications.