Australian passport & visa photos in Tucson, AZ
Australian Passport Office specifications — including the no-glasses rule that catches most people out.
Australian passport photos are not US passport photos. The Australian Passport Office asks for a print between 35–40mm wide and 45–50mm high, with the face measuring 32 to 36mm from chin to crown. A standard US 2×2 inch photo falls outside that range entirely, which is why photos taken at a drugstore counter are so often sent back.
The rule that surprises Australians most: you cannot wear glasses at all, unless you have a medical reason and a certificate to prove it. Australia is stricter here than most countries. We shoot to the APO print specification — dye-sublimation on heavyweight gloss, never inkjet — and we do not retouch. The APO rejects photos for even small edits like smoothing skin or brightening a background.
Australian passport & visa photo requirements
Photographed to Australian Passport Office specification for citizens, permanent residents, and visa applicants across Tucson and Phoenix.
| Print size | 35–40mm wide × 45–50mm high (approx. 1.4×1.8 in) |
|---|---|
| Face height | 32–36mm, chin to crown |
| Background | Plain white or light grey, contrasting with your face |
| Expression | Neutral — eyes open, mouth closed, no smiling |
| Glasses | Not permitted unless medically necessary (certificate required) |
| Head coverings | Religious only, plain-colored and unpatterned; chin to forehead must show |
| Prints required | 2 identical color prints |
| Photo age | Less than 6 months old |
| Paper | Dye-sublimation on heavyweight gloss, minimum 200gsm — inkjet is rejected |
What gets these photos rejected
- Glasses are out. Unlike the US, Australia does not allow them without a medical certificate.
- Inkjet prints are explicitly rejected. The APO requires dye-sublimation on 200gsm or heavier gloss paper.
- No retouching of any kind — not moles, not wrinkles, not background cleanup. The APO calls out skin smoothing and shadow removal as rejection causes.
- A US 2×2 inch photo will not fit the spec. 51×51mm sits outside the 35–40 × 45–50mm range.
- Infants under three may have an open mouth.
Requirements last verified August 14, 2026 against the Australian Passport Office (Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade). Official specifications change without notice — we re-check before every session. Official requirements →
Why Tucson & Phoenix trust us for Australian photos
Years serving Tucson with international photo expertise
Guaranteed acceptance, or we retake it free
Private, appointment-only sessions
Trusted by clients across Tucson & Phoenix
Frequently asked questions
Yes — if your photo doesn't meet the official requirements and is rejected for that reason, we'll retake it at no additional charge.
For a standard Australian passport or visa application, plan on roughly 6 weeks (processing times fluctuate and can change — check the Australian Passport Office's website for the latest estimate).
Same-day pickup is available for an added rush fee. Standard next-day pickup is included at no extra cost. Photos can also be mailed to you if you prefer.
Yes.
Yes.
Appointment only.
Digital copies are available on request.
Cash, Zelle, or credit/debit (card payments include a small processing fee plus applicable tax).
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