How recent must a passport photo be?
Within the last 6 months in the US, Canada and Australia, and within the last month in the UK. India asks for a recent photo without a set number of months.
Rules checked on · official sources only
What each country says
| Country | Answer | Official quote | Source | Checked |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| United StatesPassport | Taken in the last 6 months. | Submit 1 color photo taken in the last 6 months. |
travel.state.gov | |
| United Kingdom | Taken in the last month. You need a new photo for every new passport, even if your appearance hasn't changed. | You must get a new photo when you get a new passport, even if your appearance has not changed. Your photo must have been taken in the last month. |
gov.uk | |
| Canada | No more than 6 months before the date you submit your application. | Your photos must show how you look now. This means that your photos must be taken no more than 6 months before the date you submit your application. |
canada.ca | |
| Australia | Less than 6 months old. | Your photos must be: less than 6 months old good quality colour prints, produced using dye sublimation (i.e. not from an inkjet printer) |
passports.gov.au | |
| India | Recent, showing your latest appearance. No specific number of months is stated. | The photo should be most recent showing the latest appearance. |
passportindia.gov.in (PDF) |
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Answers quote the official pages linked above. Not affiliated with any government. Final acceptance is up to the issuing authority.