U.S. Passport Photo: Requirements, Size & Tool
Get your compliant passport photo at home easily
- Size: 2x2 inches for print or 600x600 px digital
- Format: Color, taken within last 6 months
- No glasses, no head covers, no headphones
- Quality: Clear, high-res, plain white background
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Why Use The Tool & What You Receive
Compliance-Verification
Join thousands of users who trust our service for fast, secure, and accurate U.S. passport photos. Our AI-powered system and expert ensure your passport photo meets all U.S. Department of State↗ for size, background, head position, and more.Real-Time Feedback
Follow our clear instructions to take your passport photo right the first time. Before purchase, get an instant preview with tips for corrections. Upload unlimited photos until it’s perfect.Privacy First
We use industry-standard encryption and never store your passport photos longer than necessary. If you encounter any difficulties, our support team is ready to help, contact us at hello@photobooth.online.What You Receive
A high-definition JPEG (min. 600x600 px) ready for online submission. A 4x6" sheet with six 2x2" photos for easy home or local printing. Professional high-quality prints delivered to your door.
2026 Passport Photo Requirements: Your Essential Checklist
Composition & Lighting
Read moreClose- Size & Position: Head must be centered and measure 1 to 1 3/8 inches (25-35 mm) from chin to top of head.
- Background: Must be plain white or off-white. No objects, patterns, or people.
- No Shadows: Ensure even, natural lighting. No shadows on the face or the background.
- Quality: Minimum 300 DPI for prints. No blur, pixels, or "red-eye" effect.
Pose & Expression
Read moreClose- Face: Directly face the camera with eyes open and clearly visible.
- Expression: Neutral expression or a natural, closed-mouth smile.
- No Alterations: No retouching, social media filters, or digital editing of facial features/blemishes.
Clothing & Accessories
Read moreClose- No Glasses: Eyeglasses are strictly prohibited (including prescription).
- Headwear: No hats, headphones, or uniforms. Religious or medical head coverings are allowed only with a signed statement and must not obscure the face.
- Details: Jewelry and facial piercings are fine if they don't hide your features. Hair should stay within the frame and not cover your eyes.
Children & Babies
Read moreClose- Child Only: Only the child should be in the frame; ensure no parent's hands, toys, or backgrounds are visible.
- Position: Take the photo at the child’s eye level for the most accurate proportions.
- Infants: Eyes do not need to be fully open for newborns. A plain white sheet behind the head is recommended.
Technical Specifications
Read moreClose- Digital: Square aspect ratio, 600x600 to 1200x1200 pixels, JPEG format (54–240 KB).
- Print: Exactly 2x2 inches (51x51 mm) on glossy or matte photo-quality paper.
- Resolution: Minimum 300 DPI to avoid blur or pixelation.
Submission Readiness
Read moreClose- Recent: Photo must be taken within the last 6 months to reflect your current appearance.
- Originality: Use an original digital photo; do not scan a printed photo or use a selfie.
- Integrity: No holes, smudges, or staples through the face area on printed versions.
FAQ
What are the photo requirements for renewing by mail or online?
Whether you’re applying by mail or online, use a color passport photo taken in the last 6 months against a plain white background. You must remove your glasses, hats, and headphones, and keep a neutral expression.
Photo Requirements Online Renewal Mail-in Application Format Digital JPEG (.jpg) Physical Print (Matte or Glossy) Dimensions 600×600 to 1200×1200 px Exactly 2×2 inches (51×51 mm) File Size 54 KB to 240 KB – Attachment Direct Upload Stapled to DS-82 or DS-11 form
What size is a U.S. passport photo?
Physical U.S. passport and ID photos must be exactly 2″ x 2″ (51 x 51 mm). Your head should be centered, measuring between 1″ and 1.4″ (25 and 35 mm). For digital online submission, photos must be 600×600 to 1200×1200 pixels (square aspect ratio) in JPEG format.
What are a U.S. visa photo requirements?
U.S. visa photos must be 2×2 inches (print) or 600×600 px (digital JPEG, 54–240 KB). Use a color photo taken within the last 6 months against a plain white background.
Key Rules:
- No glasses, hats, or headphones.
- Neutral expression, eyes open, head centered (1–1 3/8 inches).
- High resolution, no blur, and no digital alterations/filters.
Always check the official U.S. Department of State website for full details.Can I smile in a passport photo?
Yes, but only a natural, closed-mouth smile. A neutral facial expression is recommended.
How to Ensure Optimal Compliance Accuracy
Lighting is Key
Stand facing a window during daylight for even illumination. Avoid overhead lighting, as it creates shadows under the eyes and chin that can obscure facial features.
The Right Distance
Maintain a distance of 4–6 feet (1.5–2 meters) from the camera. This eliminates lens distortion, ensuring your facial proportions remain natural and accurate.
Eye Level
Position the camera lens exactly at eye level. Any upward or downward tilt alters the captured facial structure, which may result in the passport photo being rejected.
Posture & Shoulders
Stand straight with shoulders relaxed and level. Ensure both shoulders are visible in the frame for a balanced shot.
Optimal Contrast
Wear a dark or brightly colored shirt. A high contrast between your clothing and the plain white background is required to ensure a clear silhouette and proper edge detection.
Skip the Retouch
Passport photos must remain unedited. Even minor digital adjustments to remove blemishes or apply filters can be detected by verification software, leading to immediate application denial.