If you’re applying for a US passport, one of the most important steps is ensuring your passport photo meets all the requirements. A non-compliant photo can delay your application, so it’s crucial to get it right. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about US passport photo size, requirements, and online tools to make the process easy and stress-free.
Part1. Requirements for U.S. Passport Photos
1.1 What is the Size And Other Key Requirements of a US Passport Photo?[Paper version of passport photo]
An official U.S. announcement about US paper passport photo requirements
- When you are applying or renewing your passport by using a paper form,then you need a paper photo.
- Do not attach or staple your photo to the form. The acceptance agent or passport employee will review the photo and staple it to your form.
- If you print your US passport photo by yourself, please print it on glossy or matte photo quality paper.
- Here are the details of American passport paper photo requirements:
- The US passport photo size must be 2x2 inches (51x51 mm) with your head measuring between 1 and 1 3/8 inches (25-35 mm) from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head. The photo must also have a resolution of 300 pixels per inch (PPI) to ensure clarity.
- Background: Plain white or off-white, with no shadows or patterns.
- Lighting: Evenly lit with no shadows on your face or background.
- Expression: Neutral expression with both eyes open and mouth closed.
- Attire: Avoid uniforms or clothing that looks like a uniform. Headwear is only allowed for religious or medical reasons.
1.2 Requirements of a US Passport Photo?[Digital photo requirements]
An official U.S. announcement about US digital passport photo requirements
- When you are renewing your passport online,then you need to upload a digital photo.
- Here are the details of American passport paper photo requirements:
- Dimensions: At least 600 x 600 pixels.
- Format: JPEG file format
- Size: 54 kilobytes to 10 megabytes
- Background&Lighting&Expression&Attire: Same as paper photo requirements.
1.3 Special Cases and Requirements
1.3.1Newborn and Infant US Passport Photo Requirements
Taking a passport photo for a newborn or infant can be tricky. Here’s what you need to know:
- The baby’s eyes must be open, and no other person should be in the photo.
- Lay the baby on a plain white sheet and take the photo from above.
- Ensure the baby’s head is centered and there are no shadows.
1.3.2 Hair Requirements for US Passport Photos
Your hair must not cover your face, especially your eyes. If you wear a headscarf or headwear for religious reasons, it must not cast shadows or obscure your face.
1.4 Correct and incorrect examples of U.S. passport photos
Here are some correct and incorrect examples of U.S. passport photos provided by the U.S. Travel.State.Gov.
- Portrait shadows and light
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| Acceptable - The image is clear, reproduces skin tones accurately, and does not have shadows. | Unacceptable - Photo is underexposed Photo Tip : Change your camera exposure or use extra lighting. |
Unacceptable - The color is not accurate Photo Tip : You may need to change your camera’s white balance setting depending on the lighting. |
Unacceptable - The photo includes shadows on the customer’s face and background. |
- Portrait size and position
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| Acceptable - The head is centered and the correct size. | Unacceptable - The customer’s head is not centered properly in the photo. PhotoTip-: Your photo should be 2 inches by 2 inches with the head centered horizontally and sized between 1 inch and 1.4 inches. |
Unacceptable - The customer’s head size is too small in photo. Photo tip-: Your head size should be between 1 inch and 1.4 inches (25 and 35 mm). |
Unacceptable - The customer’s full head is not in the photo. Photo tip-: Your hair may extend past the boundaries of the photo, as long as your entire head is shown and is the appropriate size. |
- Character posture and expression
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| Acceptable - The customer is directly facing the camera with a neutral expression. Eyes are clearly visible. | Unacceptable - The customer is looking down, and the head is tilted forward. | Unacceptable - The customer’s facial expression is not neutral. | Unacceptable - The customer’s head is rotated, and the shoulders are not square to the camera. |
- Children
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| 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. |
Acceptable - The photo is clear and the child is facing forward. | Unacceptable - The child’s pacifier blocks a portion of the face. Photo tip: The child’s full face must be visible. |
Unacceptable -The background is not plain, another person is in the photo, and part of the child’s face is blocked. Photo tip: Place the child in a car seat with a white or off-white blanket. |
- Attire, Hats, and Glasses
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| 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.Submit a signed statement with your application if you are applying in person or by mail. |
Unacceptable - Take off your sunglasses before you get a photo. | Unacceptable - Take off your hat before you get a photo. | Unacceptable -The customer’s hair blocks a portion of the face. |
Part2. How to Take a US Passport Photo Online For Free
2.1 Taking a Digtal US Passport Photo with iPhone
Although U.S. passport photos have strict requirements, taking a US passport photo with your iPhone is easier than you think. You can use a free online tool for us passport photos, convertting and croping your photo to us passport size. Just 3 steps in 30 seconds:
- Find a plain white wall with good lighting(Stand about 2 feet away from the wall to avoid shadows). Using your iPhone to take a photo of yourself.
- Visit the website xpassportphoto and upload the photo you have taken.
- Wait for the tool to process and save your digital U.S. passport photo for free.
Below is a specific example.
| Steps | Examples |
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| Step1: Get your photo from your phone |  |
| Step2: Waiting for xpassportphoto processing |  |
| Step3: Download US passport photo for free |  |
| Step4: Check photo availability |  |
Friendly reminder:
- U.S. visa photos and U.S. passport photos have the same requirements. Here, the official U.S. visa photo verification tool is used to check the photo quality.
- You can find a plain-colored wall as the background, use a tripod for a delayed self-timer shot, or ask a friend to help take the photo. This will ensure better results when processed by the tool.
- Please ensure sufficient lighting and shoot with the light source in front of you. This will help achieve even facial lighting without shadows.
2.2 Where to Get a Printed Version of US Passport Photo
You can get a Printed Version of US passport photo at:
- Pharmacies: CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart offer passport photo services.
- Post Offices: Many USPS locations take passport photos. But most US post offices offer passport photo services for a fee. Call ahead to confirm availability at your local branch.
- Photo Studios: Professional studios ensure compliance with all requirements.
- At home: Use the free printable U.S. passport photo to print.
Special Note:
- You can obtain free printable photos through the xpassportphoto tool. If you have a printer at home, you can print them yourself. If not, you can use the digital photo for offline printing at a photo service to save on additional photography costs.
Part3. Common Questions About US Passport Photos
Are US Visa and Passport Photos the Same?
Yes, the requirements for US visa and passport photos are the same. Both require a 2x2-inch photo with a plain white background.
US Passport Renewal Photo Requirements
The requirements for US passport renewal photos are identical to new passport photos. Ensure your photo meets all the guidelines to avoid delays.
Can I Smile in My US Passport Photo?
No, you cannot smile in your US passport photo. The US Department of State requires a neutral expression with your mouth closed. This ensures facial recognition software can accurately process your photo.
How to Print US Passport Photos Online
Once you’ve edited your photo using an online tool, you can:
- Print it at home on high-quality photo paper.
- Use a local printing service like FedEx or Staples.
- Order prints online and have them delivered.
Other FAQ
What is the size of a US passport photo?
The size must be 2x2 inches with a head measurement of 1 to 1 3/8 inches.
Are US visa and passport photos the same?
Yes, the requirements are identical.
How do I take a US passport photo with my iPhone?
Use a plain white background, good lighting, and ensure your head is properly framed.
Part4. Conclusion
Getting a compliant US passport photo doesn’t have to be stressful. By following the guidelines in this guide, you can ensure your photo meets all the requirements. Whether you choose to take the photo yourself or use a professional service, the key is to pay attention to the details.