UK Passport Photo Code: How to Get It for Only £2.95
When applying for a passport online via GOV.UK, you will be asked for a passport photo code. This unique digital ID code allows the passport office to retrieve your photo automatically, saving you from the fuss with a paper application.
But where is the best place to get one? Many people assume they must find a physical passport photo booth with code, often paying over £10 for the privilege.
But there’s a workaround.
🚀 The Smart Shortcut
You don’t need a booth. You can generate a guaranteed digital passport photo code from your smartphone right now for just £2.95.
Contents
What is a UK Passport Photo Code?
A passport photo code is a unique string of characters generated by a compliant photo provider.
When you start your application on the HM Passport Office website, you simply enter this code. The system then accesses your digital passport photo from a secure cloud server and attaches it to your application. This is “Option 2” on the government website (“I have a code from a photo booth or shop”).
How Long Does a Passport Photo Code Last?
Exactly 30 days from the moment it is generated. This rule applies to all providers—whether it’s a code from our online service or one from a store. After 30 days, the data is deleted for privacy. Always generate your code close to when you plan to apply.
How to Get a Digital Passport Photo Code for £2.95
The fastest and most affordable way to get a photo code for passport today is to use an online service. You do not need to leave your house, and it is significantly cheaper than any high street option.
PhotoBooth Online allows you to turn a simple smartphone photo into a fully compliant passport photo with a government-accepted code in minutes. (And it works if you want to get a driving licence photo online too!)
How PhotoBooth Online Works
It takes less than 3 minutes to get your photo code.
Step 1: Take a Photo
Use your smartphone. Stand against any background (our system will replace it). Keep a neutral expression and ensure your face is evenly lit.
Step 2: Upload & Convert
Upload your photo to our tool using the button below. We will:
- Remove the background.
- Crop the image to the correct biometric ratio.
- Run a compliance check to make sure the converted photo meets all HM Passport Office standards.
As a result, your basic selfie will become a fully compliant UK passport photo.
Step 3: Get Your Code (Plus a Digital Photo or Prints)
Choose between two plans – each includes a digital passport photo with code that you can copy-paste directly into your application on GOV.UK.
£2.95: Photo Code + Printable Template
Perfect for online applications (or self-printing). You get:
- Passport photo code (given instantly + sent to email)
- Digital photo file (instant download + copy to email)
- Print-ready template (instant download + copy to email)
£6.95: Code + Template + 8 Prints
If you need physical photos too:
- Everything in the £2.95 package
- 8 printed photos delivered to your door
- Free Royal Mail delivery (2 days)
✅ Worried your photo won’t be accepted? No need – we offer an acceptance guarantee. In the unlikely case that your picture is rejected, we will give you a full refund.
Where Else to Get a Passport Photo with Code?
If you prefer to do it in person, there are physical locations available across the UK. However, be prepared for higher prices and the need to travel.
1. Passport Photo Booth with Code
You can find a passport photo machine with code (like Photo-Me) in major supermarkets like Tesco, Asda, or at the Post Office.
- Cost: £10.
- Process: You sit in the booth, follow the on-screen instructions, and the machine takes your photo and gives you a print with several copies of it plus a photo code.
2. High Street Photo Shops
Professional services like Max Spielmann or Snappy Snaps provide a digital passport photo with code taken by a photographer.
- Cost: £12.99 – £19.99.
- Process: Staff takes your photo and prints it on a strip that contains multiple copies and a photo code.
High Street vs. PhotoBooth Online
Ready to save? Get your secure photo code in minutes for just £2.95.
Learn everything about UK passport photo codes: how they work, how long they are valid for, and where to get one.
Written by: PhotoBooth Online Team
Updated: 11/02/26
Passport Photo Code: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you get a code for a passport photo?
The fastest method is using an online service like PhotoBooth Online. Simply upload a basic selfie – we will convert it into a verified UK passport photo and give you the digital code instantly. Alternatively, you can visit a physical booth or shop.
Do passport photo booths give a code?
Yes, modern Max Spielmann and Photo-Me machines provide photo codes. Be aware that older machines may only print photos.
How long does a passport photo code last?
A UK passport photo code is valid for 30 days. After this, the image is deleted from the server and is no longer accessible.
How do you download your passport photo from code?
If you used a booth or a shop, go to IDstation.online, enter your code, and follow the steps to download your passport photo. With PhotoBooth Online, we send the image file directly to your email.