GB UK ID / residence card 45x35 mm (4.5x3.5 cm) Document Checklist - Everything You Need

Requirements

• Photo dimensions: exactly 45 mm high × 35 mm wide (tolerance ± 1 mm), with no cropping or white borders
• Head size and placement: head height (chin to crown) between 28–33 mm, centered vertically and horizontally in frame
• Background: plain light grey or cream, uniformly lit with no patterns, textures, shadows or colour casts
• Facial expression: neutral, mouth closed, eyes open and clearly visible, no smile showing teeth
• Lighting and exposure: even, diffused lighting on face and background, no harsh shadows, hot spots or under-exposed areas
• Eye visibility: eyes unobstructed by hair, frames or reflections; eyebrows clearly visible
• Glasses restrictions: only clear, non-tinted lenses allowed; frames no thicker than 5 mm; no reflections or glare obscuring eyes; no sunglasses
• Head coverings: only for religious observance; must not obscure any facial feature from chin to hairline and side-to-side of face
• Photo quality and finish: high-resolution, sharp focus, accurate natural colour; printed on high-quality photographic paper with a matte or semi-matte finish, free of creases, tears, ink marks or staple holes
• Recent image requirement: photograph must be taken within the last 6 months and reflect current appearance
• No accessories or distractions: no headphones, wireless devices, uniforms, name badges or anything that could be mistaken for a head covering
• File submission (digital applications): JPEG/.JPG format, minimum 600 × 750 pixels (300 dpi), file size not exceeding 10 MB, uncompressed and colour-managed to sRGB profile

Step-by-Step Process

• Complete the Application Form: download and fill in the correct UKVI form (for BRP or ID card) using BLOCK CAPITALS, check every field (full name, date of birth, nationality, contact details) matches your supporting documents to avoid delays.
• Gather Primary Identity Documents: collect your valid passport or travel document plus any previous UK Biometric Residence Permits or ID cards; ensure each document is in good condition and unexpired to prove your identity and immigration status.
• Compile Proof of UK Residence: obtain two recent documents (dated within last 3 months) showing your current address, such as a utility bill, bank statement, council tax letter or tenancy agreement; these demonstrate your lawful residence.
• Prepare Financial or Employment Evidence: if required, include a payslip, P60, employer letter or bank statements covering the last three months; this confirms you meet any financial eligibility or maintenance requirements.
• Obtain Certified Translations: for any document not in English or Welsh, get a certified translation from a qualified translator; include the translator’s signed statement confirming accuracy, their contact details and qualification to ensure Home Office acceptance.
• Take a Compliant Photo (45×35 mm): have a professional take a high-resolution colour photo showing your full head (32–36 mm from chin to crown) on a plain light-grey or cream background, no shadows, neutral expression, no head coverings (unless for religious reasons) to meet UK standards.
• Pay the Application Fee and Immigration Health Surcharge: log into your UKVI account, pay the correct fee for your card type and length of stay plus IHS (if applicable) to activate your NHS entitlement and complete your online application.
• Book and Attend a Biometric Appointment: schedule an appointment at your nearest UKVCAS or designated service point to have your fingerprints and facial image captured—bring originals of all documents and your printed appointment confirmation.
• Final Document Check and Submission: before attending, re-check that originals match copies, photos meet specs, translations are certified, forms are signed; at appointment hand over documents, retain a receipt and note any reference numbers for tracking.

Tips and Best Practices

• Dimension accuracy: Always print and trim your photo to exactly 45×35 mm (±1 mm tolerance) to avoid automatic rejection for incorrect size
• Head placement: Center your face with a head height of 29–34 mm from chin to crown so biometric scanners capture your features correctly
• Uniform background: Use a plain light grey or cream backdrop free of shadows to meet Home Office rules and prevent costly retakes
• Recent image: Submit a photo taken within the last 30 days so your ID reflects your current appearance and speeds up identity checks
• No accessories: Remove glasses, hats, scarves or headphones to eliminate glare and obstruction, ensuring clear facial recognition

Conclusion

Conclusion: Ensuring your GB UK ID/residence card application photo and documents fully comply with the 45×35 mm (4.5×3.5 cm) specifications is crucial to a smooth approval process. A single non-conforming element can lead to delays or outright rejection, so careful preparation is key.

Key Points:

• Photo dimensions: exactly 45×35 mm with head height 29–34 mm and 3–5 mm space from top of hair to photo edge
• Background & quality: plain light grey or cream backdrop, even lighting, sharp focus, no shadows or reflections
• Facial appearance: neutral expression, eyes open and visible, no hats/glasses/headwear (unless for religious/medical reasons)
• Recency & print: taken within last month, color-printed on professional photo paper without borders
• Document set: completed application form, valid passport or travel document, proof of residence status, biometric enrolment confirmation
• Final check: verify each photo and document against the official checklist before submission to avoid processing setbacks