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Australia Passport Photo
Australia Passport photos can't be made online: the Australian Passport Office advises against online photo services and apps because of identity-fraud risk. Here is what the official rules say (head 32–36 mm from chin to crown, white or light grey background, taken within 6 months), and how to get a photo that is accepted the first time.
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Where to get it instead
Why online tools don't work: the Australian Passport Office advises against online photo services and apps because of identity-fraud risk.
“We do not recommend using an online passport photo service or a mobile app. These may put you in danger of identity fraud.”Official guidance
Book a photo studio or a pharmacy photo counter that takes Australia Passport photos, and bring the requirements below so you can check the photo before you leave.
Official requirements
- Head size
- The height of your face, from your chin to your crown, must be 32–36 mm.
- Background
- a plain white or light grey background that contrasts with your face
- Glasses
- You must not wear glasses unless you can't remove them for medical reasons; vision impairment alone not acceptable.
- Head covering
- Religious head coverings only, plain without patterns, whole face chin-to-forehead and edges visible.
- Expression
- Anyone over 3 years old must face the camera straight on, with eyes open and a neutral expression.
- Taken within
- 6 months
Source: passports.gov.au. Last checked Nov 7, 2026.
What counts as an altered photo
“They must not have: any retouching, such as removing moles, wrinkles or scars”Official rule
“Even small edits like smoothing skin, brightening the background or removing shadows can affect the accuracy of biometric checks”Official example of an altered photo
Australia Passport photo questions
Can I wear glasses in my Australia Passport photo?
The official rule: “You must not wear glasses unless you can't remove them for medical reasons; vision impairment alone not acceptable.”
Can I smile in my Australia Passport photo?
The official rule: “Anyone over 3 years old must face the camera straight on, with eyes open and a neutral expression.”
Can I wear a hat or head covering?
The official rule: “Religious head coverings only, plain without patterns, whole face chin-to-forehead and edges visible.”
How recent must the photo be?
It must have been taken within the last 6 months.
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