When renewing a United States passport, it is essential that your passport photo adheres to the government's specifications in all aspects. The US e-Visa Digital Photo Service can help you save both time and money by guaranteeing the accuracy of your photo on the first attempt.

Just take a moment to review and adhere to the following essential details, ensuring each photo meets the necessary criteria using e-Visa Photos.

What is the size of a US passport photo?

A U.S. passport photo must adhere to specific size requirements to meet international standards. Fortunately, the U.S. passport aligns with global conventions. The passport photo should measure 2 x 2 inches (approximately 5 cm).

Photo size and specifications

Below is a comprehensive guide outlining the size requirements for a U.S. passport photo.

• Size: 2 x 2 inches (approximately 5 cm).

• Colour: The photo must be in colour and not grayscale.

• Head size and positioning: The head should occupy 1 to 1 3/8 inches from the chin to the top of the head in the photo.

• Recentness: The photo must not be older than six months.

• Background: It should be a solid white colour or a shade of white.

• Expression: A neutral expression is recommended, though a gentle, natural smile is acceptable if preferred.

• Eyes: Both eyes should be open and clearly visible.

• Eyewear: Wearing glasses is not permitted.

• Head coverings: Hats, beanies, and similar head coverings are not allowed, except for religious reasons.

• Dimensions and size (pixels): Minimum of 600 x 600 pixels and a maximum of 1200 x 1200 pixels.

• Attire and dress code: Uniforms are not acceptable, but most other clothing is suitable.

• Facial hair: If you typically have a beard, keep it for the photo. If not, avoid growing one just for the picture.

• Required quantity for application: Two photos per person and application. Save time and ensure the correct photo using e-Visa Photos!

What are the US passport visa photo rules?

Here is a more comprehensive understanding of the do's and don'ts when capturing a professional passport or visa photo.

How strict are the guidelines for passport photos?

All passport photos must strictly adhere to the precise guidelines outlined by the State Department. Any deviation from these guidelines can lead to rejection of your passport photo and suspension of your application.

Follow the passport photo stipulations and recommended practices to prevent rejection or delays in your passport application.

What are the prerequisites for a U.S. work permit photo?

The requirements for a U.S. work permit photo mirror those of a passport photo. The work permit photo should measure 2 x 2 inches and have been taken within the last 6 months.

How can I determine if my passport photo is acceptable?

Your photo must align with all the State Department's specifications as detailed in the passport photo requirements. Suitable photos encompass proper lighting, accurate pixel dimensions, and correct photo measurements. By adhering to the guidelines on this page, you can ensure compliance.

Moreover, utilising our convenient photo service guarantees your photos meet the criteria for all your visa and passport necessities!

Is it possible to capture a passport photo with a phone?

Certainly, a passport photo can be taken using your phone. A well-lit area with a white background is essential. If possible, have a friend take the photo. Subsequently, you can upload the correctly-sized photo and order prints online.

e-Visa Photos provides a comprehensive platform to guide you through the entire process of obtaining the perfect passport photo.

How can I crop a photo to U.S. passport dimensions?

E-Visa Photos can aid you in cropping your photo to meet U.S. passport size requirements. Just select the document for which the photo is needed, indicate your preference for receiving the photo, upload your headshot, and our experts will ensure perfection.

Additional U.S. Passport or Visa Photo Guidelines and Tips

• Ensure proper lighting, as photos that are underexposed or overexposed may be rejected.

• A useful guideline is to position your nose at the centre of the photo.

• Utilise a plain background only; no patterns or coloured backgrounds are allowed.

• Exercise caution with bulky scarves around the neck, as they might obscure the head.

• While daily-worn hearing aids are acceptable, other devices like wired or wireless headphones, Bluetooth devices, and any items apart from hearing aids must not be worn.

• Printed photos submitted with the passport application should be on glossy or matte paper.

Capturing Your Own Photo for a U.S. Passport or Visa Application

If you plan to take or scan your own photo, consider the following checklist:

• Photos must not undergo digital enhancement or alteration.

• Use the government's free tools to ensure the photo meets the correct specifications.

• Employ a plain background, and ensure your face covers around 55% of the photo, centred.

Adhere to the specified pixel dimensions as mentioned earlier. Simplify the process and obtain your budget-friendly U.S. visa photo with e-Visa!

FAQS

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About U.S. Passport Photo Requirements

What are the specific dimensions for a U.S. passport photo?

The dimensions for a U.S. passport photo are 2 x 2 inches (approximately 5 cm).

Is colour or black and white required for the photo?

 The photo must be in colour; black and white photos are not acceptable.

How should the head be positioned in the photo?

 The head should occupy between 1 and 1 3/8 inches from the chin to the top of the head in the photo.

How recent should the photo be?

 The photo must not be older than six months at the time of application.

What is the acceptable background colour for the photo?

The background should be a solid white colour or a shade of white.

Can I smile in the photo?

It's encouraged to have a neutral expression, but a soft, natural smile is acceptable.

Should my eyes be open and visible in the photo?

 Yes, both eyes should be open and clearly visible.

Can I wear glasses in the photo?

 No, wearing glasses in the photo is not allowed.

Are there any restrictions on head coverings, like hats or beanies?

 Generally, head coverings like hats or beanies are not allowed, except for religious reasons.

What are the minimum and maximum pixel dimensions for the photo?

 The photo should have a minimum of 600 x 600 pixels and a maximum of 1200 x 1200 pixels.

Is there a specific dress code for the photo?

Uniforms are not allowed, but most other clothing is acceptable.

What about facial hair, like beards?

If you typically have a beard, you can keep it for the photo. If not, avoid growing one just for the picture.