What to Wear for a Passport Photo (2026 Rules)
A rejected passport photo can delay your travel plans by weeks. Follow this definitive guide on clothing, makeup, glasses, and facial expressions to guarantee your photo is accepted.
1. Clothing: What Color Shirt for a Passport Photo?
The most common mistake people make is wearing a white shirt. Because passport photos must be taken against a plain white or off-white background, wearing a white shirt will make you look like a floating head.
DO Wear
- Dark colors (black, navy, dark green)
- High necklines or collared shirts
- Casual or business everyday wear
DON'T Wear
- White or very light grey shirts
- Uniforms of any kind (military, work)
- Camouflage patterns
- Low-cut tops (they make you look naked when cropped)
2. Can You Smile in a Passport Photo?
No exaggerated smiles. The US Department of State technically allows a "natural, unexaggerated smile," but the safest and most recommended approach is a completely neutral expression.
Facial recognition software relies on the exact geometry of your face. Big smiles that show teeth, squint your eyes, or alter your cheekbones will likely result in a rejection. Keep your mouth closed and your eyes open.
3. Can I Wear Glasses in My Passport Photo?
NO. As of 2016, you cannot wear glasses in a U.S. passport photo.
You must remove your glasses for the photo, even if you wear them every day. The only exception is if you cannot remove your glasses for medical reasons, in which case you must provide a signed doctor's statement with your application.
4. Makeup, Jewelry, and Earrings
Can you wear makeup? Yes, but keep it natural. Your photo must accurately reflect how you look on a day-to-day basis. Avoid heavy contouring, dramatic eyeliner, or anything that alters your natural facial structure, as this confuses facial recognition algorithms.
Can you wear earrings? Yes, small earrings and facial piercings are allowed as long as they do not hide your face, cast a shadow, or cause a harsh glare from the camera flash. Avoid large statement earrings or chunky necklaces that obscure your jawline or neck.
5. Hair and Head Coverings
Your full face must be visible. If you have long hair or bangs, make sure they are tucked behind your ears or pinned back so they do not cover your eyes or the edges of your face.
Hats and Head Coverings: Hats and head coverings are strictly forbidden unless worn daily for religious or medical purposes. If claiming an exemption, you must submit a signed statement, and the covering must still not cast a shadow on your face or obscure your hairline.
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