Embassy of the United States

Photo Requirements

Meeting the following requirements helps ensure photos you submit for passport applications are acceptable.

Acceptable passport photos are:

• measured 2" x 2" square
• taken within the past six months
• color
• against a solid, light background
• full face

In the photo, the image of the head measured from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head (including hair) must be 1.38 inches, and the applicant is:

• not looking down or to either side,
• does not wear head coverings or a hat, except due to religious beliefs, no photographs of military, airline or other personnel wearing hats and,
• does not wear glasses or anything which may detract from the face unless required for medical reasons.