Passport Photos

This page provides information about photos if you are applying or renewing using a paper form. If you are renewing online, follow the steps to upload a digital photo to your application.

Photo Tips

Submit one color photo

Submit a recent photo taken in last 6 months

Use a clear image of your face

Do not change your photo using computer software, phone apps or filters, or artificial intelligence

Directly face the camera without tilting your head.

Take off your eyeglasses for your photo

Use a white or off-white background without shadows, texture, or lines

Photo Examples

Shadows and Lighting

Acceptable - The image is clear, reproduces skin tones accurately, and does not have shadows.

Size and Position

Acceptable - The head is centered and the correct size.

Photo tip: Your photo should be 2 inches by 2 inches (51 x 51 mm) with the head centered and sized between 1 inch and 1.4 inches (25 and 35 mm).

Resolution, Print Size, and Quality

Acceptable - The photo is sharp without any visible pixels or printer dots. The photo is printed on glossy or matte quality paper.

Digital Changes

Unacceptable - The background is cropped using a photo retouching tool, changing the outline of the head, face, and neck.

Pose and Expression

Acceptable - The customer is directly facing the camera with a neutral expression. Eyes are clearly visible.

Attire, Hats, and Glasses

Acceptable - The customer's full face is visible, and no shadows or clothing block the face.

Photo tip: You may not wear hats or head coverings, except for religious or medical purposes.

Background

Acceptable - The background is white or off-white, without shadows, and is plain without texture, objects, or lines.

Children

Acceptable - No other person is in the photo, and the child is facing the camera with eyes open.

Photo tip: It is acceptable if your infant's eyes are not entirely open.