Passport photo specifications
Similar to the requirements from the Australian Passport Office’s web page:
- No retouching of any kind (including removal of background, moles, wrinkles or scars)
- Clear, focused image with no marks or 'red eye'
- Plain white or light grey background that contrasts with your face
- Uniform lighting (no shadows or reflections), with appropriate brightness and contrast to show natural skin tone
- Face centred and looking at the camera straight on; not tilted in any direction
- Hair off your face, so that the edges of your face are visible
- Eyes open, mouth closed
- Neutral expression (not smiling, laughing or frowning)
- Acceptable size 500 KB
- Acceptable format JPEG, JPG
VETASSESS recommends showing this list to whoever is taking your photo for you.
If you are in Australia already, we recommend getting your photograph taken at any participating Australia Post post office, where staff are trained to adhere to these specifications.
Passport Photo Best Practice Examples
The Australian Passport Office’s passport recommendations web page suggests more locations for getting a photo taken according to these requirements.
For any other enquiries about proof of identity and more, you can also contact us.
Here are some visual examples of best practice:
When getting a passport photo taken—and preparing it to send to VETASSESS with your application—we recommend following these requirements.
Any photographs that do not meet these specifications may delay the assessment process.
