---

Starting November 1, 2016, eye glasses will
no longer be allowed in visa photos.

• Make sure the photo presents the full head from the top of the hair to the bottom of the chin
• Center the head with the frame
• The person in the photo should have a neutral expression and be facing the camera

Paper Photo Head Size Template

• Photo must be 2 inches by 2 inches
• The height of the head (top of hair to bottom of chin) should measure 1 inch to 1 3/8 inches (25 mm - 35 mm)
• Make sure the eye height is between 1 1/8 inches to 1 3/8 inches (28 mm – 35 mm) from the bottom of the photo

Digital Image Head Size Template

• The top of the head, including the hair, to the bottom of the chin must be between 50% and 69% of the image's total height. The eye height (measured from the bottom of the image to the level of the eyes) should be between 56% and 69% of the image's height.
  
  
• Image pixel dimensions must be in a square aspect ratio (meaning the height must be equal to the width). Minimum acceptable dimensions are 600 pixels (width) x 600 pixels (height). Maximum acceptable dimensions are 1200 pixels (width) x 1200 pixels (height).

Well Composed Photo Composition Examples

 

Changes to US Passport Photo Specifications in 2025

Yes, there were significant updates to the US passport photo requirements in 2025. The U.S. Department of State implemented stricter enforcement and enhanced biometric standards starting in October 2025, aligning more closely with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) guidelines. These changes aim to improve security, reduce application rejections (which exceeded 300,000 in 2024 due to photo issues), and support modern biometric verification. The updates primarily focus on prohibiting digital alterations, stricter lighting and quality controls, and mandatory compliance for all new applications and renewals.

Key Changes Effective October 2025

• Prohibition on Digital Editing and Filters: Photos must be completely unedited with natural skin tones. No manipulation, including red-eye removal, skin smoothing, or background changes, is allowed. This is a major tightening from prior leniency.
• Enhanced Biometric and ICAO Alignment: Stricter standards for facial recognition compatibility, including precise head positioning (1–1⅜ inches from chin to crown), even lighting to avoid shadows, and clear visibility of facial features. Ears, hair, and headwear rules remain but are more rigorously enforced (e.g., hair cannot obscure the face; religious headwear requires documentation).
• Online Renewal Digital Specs: For digital submissions via the expanded online system (launched in 2024), photos must now meet exact file requirements: 600x600 pixels minimum to 1200x1200 pixels maximum, at least 54 KB file size, and 300 DPI resolution. Printed photos retain the 2x2 inch size but must use high-quality matte or glossy paper.
• Recency and Appearance Verification: Photos must be taken within 6 months, reflecting current appearance (e.g., recent hair changes). Automatic rejection for non-compliance, even in expedited processing.

Unchanged Core Requirements

Many foundational specs remain the same as pre-2025:

• Size: 2x2 inches (51x51 mm).
• Background: Plain white or off-white, no patterns or shadows.
• Pose and Expression: Neutral expression, eyes open and facing the camera, mouth closed; head straight (no tilting).
• Attire and Accessories: Everyday clothing (no uniforms); glasses prohibited unless medically necessary (with doctor's note); hats or head coverings allowed only for religious/medical reasons (with signed statements).
• Quality: Color photo on photo paper; no selfies or low-resolution images.

Recommendations to Avoid Rejection

• Use professional services, passport booths, or ICAO-compliant apps for guaranteed adherence.
• The State Department's online Photo Tool can validate sizing, but it doesn't detect edits—manual review is final.
• Apply 3–4 months before travel to buffer for reshoots.

For the most current details, check the official U.S. Department of State website (travel.state.gov). These changes affect all applicants, including first-time, renewals, and children (same rules apply, with aging exceptions for under-16s).