Can I wear glasses in my passport photo?

Only if you wear them daily and there's no glare on the lenses. Many countries now prefer photos without glasses to avoid reflection issues, so consider removing them if possible.

What's the most common reason photos get rejected?

Shadows on the face or background, usually caused by poor lighting or standing too close to the wall. The second most common issue is incorrect head size in the frame.

Can I smile in my passport photo?

Keep a neutral expression with your mouth closed. A slight, natural expression is acceptable, but avoid big smiles or showing teeth as this can cause recognition issues.

How recent does my passport photo need to be?

Photos must be taken within 6 months of your application. Don't reuse old photos even if they look similar, as facial recognition technology can detect age differences.

What if I wear religious headwear?

Religious headwear is generally acceptable as long as your full face is visible from bottom of chin to top of forehead. The headwear cannot cast shadows on your face.

How to Take Compliant Passport Photos That Won't Get Rejected

Use a plain white background, face the camera directly with a neutral expression, ensure your entire face is visible from chin to top of head, and follow the 2x2 inch size requirement. Most rejections happen because of shadows, wrong background colors, or incorrect head positioning.

Set up your background. Use a plain white or off-white wall. Avoid textured walls, patterns, or colored backgrounds. Stand 2-3 feet away from the wall to minimize shadows.
Position your camera at eye level. Place your camera or phone 4-6 feet away from you. The lens should be at the same height as your eyes. Use a tripod or have someone else take the photo to avoid camera shake.
Frame your shot correctly. Your head should fill 50-69% of the frame from chin to crown. Leave some space above your head but ensure your entire face fits within the photo boundaries.
Use even lighting. Take the photo during daylight hours near a large window, or use two light sources on either side of your face. Avoid direct flash or overhead lighting that creates shadows under your nose or eyes.
Follow expression and positioning rules. Look directly at the camera with a neutral expression. Keep your mouth closed. Remove glasses unless you wear them daily (then ensure no glare). Keep your head straight and shoulders square to the camera.
Take multiple shots. Take 10-15 photos to ensure you have options. Check each one for shadows, blinking, or slight head tilts that could cause rejection.
Print at correct specifications. Print on photo paper at exactly 2x2 inches (51x51mm). Use a high-quality printer or professional photo service. Ensure the photo is sharp and not pixelated.

Can I wear glasses in my passport photo?: Only if you wear them daily and there's no glare on the lenses. Many countries now prefer photos without glasses to avoid reflection issues, so consider removing them if possible.
What's the most common reason photos get rejected?: Shadows on the face or background, usually caused by poor lighting or standing too close to the wall. The second most common issue is incorrect head size in the frame.
Can I smile in my passport photo?: Keep a neutral expression with your mouth closed. A slight, natural expression is acceptable, but avoid big smiles or showing teeth as this can cause recognition issues.
How recent does my passport photo need to be?: Photos must be taken within 6 months of your application. Don't reuse old photos even if they look similar, as facial recognition technology can detect age differences.
What if I wear religious headwear?: Religious headwear is generally acceptable as long as your full face is visible from bottom of chin to top of forehead. The headwear cannot cast shadows on your face.