UK passport photo problem due to front camera selfie mirror image

[Springsunny]

Only after receiving the UK passport (2024) realised that the front camera was used for the photo (selfie/ mirror image), hence the moles/ scars were displaying on the opposite side. Now more worried if this will cause issues in immigration gates, etc as it's said that there will be strict automated facial scans.

Has anyone faced this kind of issue with recently received. Also please share if you took any action to get it rectified and how easy it is?

Not had an issue but I don't have particularly dark freckles

Flip the photo before uploading

Thanks! Meaning selfie pic didn't cause any issue in immigration gates is it?

How? It’s already printed in the passport!

I don't think the facial recognition registers moles and scars - I thought it was based on measuring the distance between various facial features and comparing them with the photo. My concern would be if your face was very asymmetrical then the mapped measurements taken from your photo won't match your actual face.

I would imagine the only way to rectify it would be to apply for another passport. They're not going to change the photo on an existing passport.

Unless the moles and scars are really prominent and your face looks totally different as a mirror image, I can't imagine it's going to be a problem. You could have make up on so they'd be covered but your passport would still be valid.

Thanks applying new passport is the final option. But I am worried if that will cause any further issues or negative remarks/ observations in their records.

Also not sure how complicated the process is and timescales.

Hence thought of checking here if it's a real issue, has anyone faced this practically or can live with. If it's not going to stop one from travel, then it's still ok I think. (Adding to the confusion, the visas will have normal pics, not sure if they would compare it)

The only way you'll know for sure is when you turn up at a passport control e-gate and see if you're rejected.

From the UK Passport Office photo standards guidance:

Mirror images

HM Passport Office will not accept mirror images (when the photo is flipped from right to left or left to right) as it may cause problems at border control for the customer.

Examiners must challenge mirror images when comparing them with previous photos of the customer (for example, if there is a distinguishing mark on one side of their face).

If you suspect the photo is a mirror image, you must ask the customer to write to HM Passport Office stating that their photo is a true likeness.

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/photographic-standards/photo-standards-accessible

Are you sure the selfie photo was definitely flipped?

Bottom line is, yes, it is an illegal photo, yes, it was wrong to claim it is a true image, yes, your face will be asymmetrical,

Will you pass through border control with it? You won't know until you try. Would I risk it? No

I would apply for a new passport

This ^

I made a fool of myself the other day thinking a photo was flipped when in fact what I see in the mirror is wrong and not what I look like to others. Hopefully you've made the same mistake and the passport is fine.

If it's not, I suspect you may not be able to use e gates, but will be fine at a manned passport control.

Unfortunately yes.

Since when does selfie mode take mirror image photos? Sure, it shows you a mirror image on the screen while you're posing for it, but the actual picture is the correct way round? That's certainly how it works on my phone and although I grant I haven't taken selfies on every phone in existence I would have thought that was the norm?

Update: Rang passport office and they confirmed it's fine and nothing needs to be done. In other forums too someone was able to travel without issues. Thanks all.

The last time I went through the machines at the airport it didn’t recognise my photo to face so I had to quickly queue and go through the manned desk. It wasn’t too much of a delay! They understand that the machines don’t always recognise the photos etc.

Hi
I have done the same thing and submitted a mirror image selfie photo ,its been accepted and my passport is being printed. Have you used your passport yet ? Did you encounter any problems? Did you use the e gates? . Not sure whether to re apply or risk it with mirror image photo.

Hi I have ran into the same issue and am in the process of getting a visa so am unable to apply for a new passport. Has anyone run into any issues using their mirror image passport?

I spoke to the passport office and they said if the photo has been accepted by them then it's OK. After speaking to some frequent fliers I know they have a correct photo but still never get through the e gates and have to go through the manned gates. I guess if you fly a lot and it causes you delays it might be worth re newing it them . I only fly once a year so won't be much of an issue for me not getting through the e gates. There is also no mention of mirror image in the how to take a photo guide ,I only found out when I delved a bit deeper but it was too late had already submitted by then.

Hey, has everything been ok with the passport? I’ve stupidly done the same thing lol

I had a call in the last few days where they noticed mine had been taken in selfie mode (It didn't even cross my mind!) and asked me to submit another. The lady said the reason was that I'd be prevented from going through the electronic gates- she didn't say they wouldn't let me in altogether.