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Uploading files to online forms

You may need to upload documents when you fill out an online form. Please follow the guidance below to make sure your documents are uploaded correctly.

Accepted file types

You can upload the following types of files:

  • PDF (.pdf)
  • JPG (.jpg or .jpeg)
  • PNG (.png)
  • HEIC (.heic)

PDF files are ideal for:

  • Multi-page documents (such as tenancy agreements, decision letters)
  • Scanned letters or official paperwork

JPG or PNG files are ideal for:

  • Photos of documents taken with your phone or tablet
  • Screenshots of emails, messages, or webpages
  • ID cards or utility bills

Most phones take photos as JPG or PNG. Scanners usually save as PDF.

Tips for a successful upload

  • Keep each file under the maximum size limit shown on the form.
  • Do not take photos of your screen - use the device's screenshot tool instead.
  • Check that the information is clearly visible and not blurry.
  • Only upload the pages relevant to your application.
  • Do not password-protect files – we won’t be able to open them.

Large image file sizes

If your images are too large, they may cause the form to fail. To reduce file size, convert images to PDF (but don’t use the “Save as PDF” option—it can make the file bigger).

You can use Adobe's free online tool: Convert to PDF (opens in new tab)

To convert an image to PDF:

  • Click Select a File and choose your image
    Or simply drag and drop the file into the designated drop zone if you're on a desktop
  • Once uploaded, Acrobat will automatically convert the image file into a PDF
  • Download the PDF file ready to upload to the online form. 

Compressing a large PDF

You can also compress large PDF files (if required) using Adobe Acrobat's free web tools. You’ll need to create a free Adobe account to download the compressed PDF: Compress PDF (opens in new tab)

To compress your PDF:

  • Click Select File and search for the file on your device
    Or drag and drop your files into the drop zone if you're on a desktop
  • Choose medium compression and select Compress
  • It will advise that your compressed PDF is ready and show the size it has been reduced to. Select the Download option and then save your newly compressed PDF in an area on your device ready to upload to the online form.