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University ID card photo specification

Find out how to create the correct photo for your University ID card

ℹ️ Use your smartphone, or other digital device, to create and upload a photograph for your new University ID card 

ID card photo guidance

  • Follow these guidelines to get it right the first time.
  • Please be aware that unsuitable photos will be rejected and may delay the issuing of your ID card. 

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Your photo must

  •  Be a close-up of your head and shoulders
  • Show you facing forward and looking straight at the camera
  •  Have a plain, light background
  • Be in colour
  • Clearly show your whole face, from the top of your head to your chin
  • Be sharp, clear, and well lit, with good contrast between you and the background
  • Show your eyes open and visible (no sunglasses, tinted glasses, or hair covering your eyes)
  • Show your full head (head coverings only for faith or medical reasons)
  • Show only you (no one else in the photo)
  • Have nothing covering your face (your eyes, nose, and mouth must be fully visible)
  • Be taken within the last month if you’re uploading it

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Your photo must not

  • Must not be edited or altered using software
  • Must not use filters or effects from apps (e.g., Snapchat)
  • Must not be a photo or screenshot of another ID

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Photo size and resolution

Your photo must be:

  • At the appropriate angle (no rotation required)
  • At least 600 pixels wide and 750 pixels tall
  • At least 50KB and no more than 3MB
  • Resolution at least 300dpi (Dots per Inch)

Example of a 'good' photograph 

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How to upload your photo

Upload your photo

ℹ️ You must have previously set up your UH Account