Passport Photo Rules: Background, Expression, Glasses and More
Most countries base their passport photo rules on the same international standard from ICAO, the UN civil aviation agency. Details differ by country, but the basics below apply almost everywhere.
Background
The background must be plain and evenly lit, with no patterns, objects or shadows. White and light grey are the most common; some countries also accept off-white, cream or light blue. Check the exact color for your document.
Head size and position
Your face must be centered and look straight at the camera. The distance from chin to the top of the head is usually 70–80% of the photo height. On a 35×45 mm photo, that means a head height of about 32–36 mm. Too small or too large is one of the most common reasons for rejection.
Expression and eyes
- Neutral expression with the mouth closed
- Both eyes open and clearly visible
- No red-eye, and no hair over the eyes
Glasses
Rules vary the most here. The United States doesn't allow glasses in passport and visa photos at all. Many other countries allow them if the frame doesn't cover the eyes and there is no glare on the lenses. Tinted glasses and sunglasses are not allowed anywhere, except for medical reasons. If in doubt, take them off.
Head coverings
Hats and caps are not allowed. Head coverings worn for religious reasons are generally accepted as long as your face is fully visible from the bottom of the chin to the top of the forehead, and no shadows fall on it.
Photo quality
- Taken within the last six months
- Sharp and in focus, with natural skin tones
- No filters, retouching or digital changes to your face
- Printed on photo-quality paper when a paper photo is required
Always check the official rules
Authorities update their requirements from time to time, and only the issuing office decides whether a photo is accepted. Before you submit, check the official website for your document.
Related guides
- How to Take a Passport Photo at Home with Your PhoneTake a passport or visa photo at home with your phone: lighting, background, camera position and the most common mistakes, step by step.
- Passport and Visa Photo Sizes by CountryPhoto size, head height and background color for passport and visa photos of the US, Schengen, UK, Canada, Türkiye, China, India and more.
- How to Reduce a Photo's File Size (to 100 KB or Less)Online forms often limit photo uploads to 50, 100 or 200 KB. Here is how to shrink a photo to an exact file size without losing visible quality.
- Can You Wear Glasses in a Passport Photo?Whether glasses are allowed in passport and visa photos depends on the country. The rules for the US, Türkiye and ICAO-based photos, and what to do if you can't take them off.
- How Old Can a Passport Photo Be?Most countries want a passport or visa photo taken within the last six months. The rules for the US, Türkiye, Australia, China, South Korea and Schengen visas.