Passport photos that don't meet our requirements are the #1 reason applications get held up during the application process. In 2017, nearly a quarter million passport photos were not accepted! Submitting a passport application with a bad photo will delay your application and could interfere with planned travel.
Save yourself the anxiety of delays and make sure you’re not making these mistakes!
It's tempting to submit an old photo from a previous passport! Your passport photo needs to have been taken within the last 6 months. We verify that the photo looks like you. So, save your old photos for throwback Thursdays!
Watch this video to see a sample of a quality photo!
Photos that are too bright or that show shadows on your face will also cause you problems. Your photo needs to be a clear image of your face. Remember, photo filters are good for social media, not your passport photo.
Watch this video to see a sample of a quality photo!
Selfies are a bad idea when it comes to passport photos. Photos that are taken too close or too far away will be rejected.
Watch this video to see another example!
Photo is blurry, grainy, pixelated, or printed on the wrong paper. Photos should be high resolution.
Watch this video to see another example!
As of 2016, we no longer allow eye glasses in passport photos. We are still seeing four-eyed passport applicants and their shiny specs! Please remove your eyewear for your passport photo so there is no delay with your application.
Watch this video to see another example!
Now that you know what mistakes to avoid, go to our photo requirements to learn more about proper dimensions, see sample passport photos, and use our helpful photo tool. With these additional tips and tools you are on your way to having a picture perfect passport.
