American Passport & Visa International
Need help?
(800) 766-0452
Check Status

Passport Instructions

Passport FAQ


Information for

Your passport photo must be taken within the last 6 months and show your current appearance. 

CORRECT PHOTO EXAMPLE: PHOTO SIZE & POSITIONING

 
  • 2"x2" in size
  • A full view of the front of your face is required. DO NOT tilt your face to the left or right, or up or down. 
  • The photo should include your face, neck, and shoulders only, with some blank space above the top of your head (about 1/4 - 1/2 inch of space). Your chest should not be included, and only about 1/4 to 1/2 inch of the top of the shoulders should be visible.
PHOTO BACKGROUND & PRINTING ATTIRE & ACCESSORIES

  • The photo should be printed clearly, in full color, on photo quality paper.
  • Plain white or off-white background. 
  • The photo must be free of shadows, blurriness, dots, and graininess and not underexposed (too dark) or overexposed (too bright).

 

  • Clothing must be normal street attire. Do NOT wear a uniform, a costume, etc
  • Religious attire is acceptable if it is worn daily. In this case, a letter of explanation must be provided. View Sample Letter of Explanation. 
  • Do NOT wear a hat, headgear, or jewelry that obscures the hair or hairline
  • If you normally wear a hearing device, wig or similar articles, they should be worn for your picture
  • Glasses of any kind are not acceptable. 
INCORRECT PHOTO EXAMPLES: