TL;DR
Your passport photo must be a recent, front-facing portrait with a neutral expression, both eyes open, taken against a plain white or light background. No glasses, hats, or digital filters. The exact dimensions vary by country — the US uses 2×2 inches (51×51 mm), the UK uses 35×45 mm, and China uses 33×48 mm.
Approved vs. Rejected: Photo Examples
- Neutral expression, mouth closed
- Even lighting, no shadows
- Pure white background
- Eyes clearly visible
- Head centered and upright
- Harsh shadows on face
- Non-white textured background
- Head tilted to one side
- Squinting eyes
- Yellow color cast from indoor lighting
- Direct forward gaze
- No glasses or accessories
- Clear contrast with background
- Sharp focus on face
- Appropriate framing and crop
- Glasses with visible lens glare
- Smiling with teeth showing
- Head turned to the side
- White shirt blends with background
- Not facing camera directly
Size and dimension requirements
Each country sets its own photo dimensions. The United States requires 2×2 inches (51×51 mm) at 600×600 pixels. The United Kingdom requires 35×45 mm. Canada uses 50×70 mm — one of the largest formats. China requires 33×48 mm with specific head-width constraints (21–24 mm). Always match both the physical print size and the digital pixel dimensions if submitting online.
Background and lighting rules
A plain, uniform background is essential. Most countries accept white or off-white. The UK allows light grey or cream. Shadows on the face or background will cause rejection. Use natural daylight from a window — avoid overhead fluorescent lighting, which creates harsh shadows under the eyes and nose. The background must be free of patterns, objects and other people.
Face, expression and positioning
Your face must be centred, looking directly at the camera. A neutral expression with mouth closed is the universal standard. Both eyes must be fully visible — no hair covering them. The head height should typically occupy 50–69% of the photo frame. Do not tilt or rotate your head. Ears do not need to be visible for US passports, but some countries require them.
Clothing, glasses and accessories
Wear normal, everyday clothing that contrasts with the background. Avoid uniforms, white shirts (they blend with the background) and busy patterns. Most countries now prohibit glasses entirely. Head coverings are not allowed unless worn for religious or medical reasons, and even then the face must be fully visible from forehead to chin. Remove Bluetooth earbuds, headphones and large jewellery.
Digital file requirements
For online applications, photos must be in JPEG format. The US requires 600×600 pixels with a maximum file size of 240 KB. The UK requires a minimum of 600×750 pixels. Avoid applying filters, beauty modes or portrait-mode background blur — these are grounds for automatic rejection by many digital submission systems.
Key data at a glance
| Specification | United States | United Kingdom | Canada | China | Australia |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Photo size | 2×2 in (51×51 mm) | 35×45 mm | 50×70 mm | 33×48 mm | 35×45 mm |
| Digital size | 600×600 px | 600×750 px min | 591×827 px | 354×472 px | 600×800 px |
| Background | White / off-white | Light grey / cream | White or light | Uniform white | Plain white |
| Head height | 25–35 mm | 29–34 mm | 31–36 mm | 28–33 mm | 32–36 mm |
| Glasses allowed | No | No | No | No | No |
| File format | JPEG ≤ 240 KB | JPEG | JPEG | JPEG | JPEG |
Frequently asked questions
Can I smile in my passport photo?
No. A neutral expression with your mouth closed is required by virtually all countries. Some authorities describe this as a 'natural, resting expression'. Any visible teeth will typically cause rejection.
Do my ears have to show?
It depends on the country. US passport photos do not require visible ears. However, some European and Asian countries do. Check your specific document requirements.
Can I wear makeup?
Light, natural makeup is acceptable. Avoid heavy contouring, dramatic false eyelashes, or any makeup that significantly alters your natural appearance. The photo must look like you in person.
How recent does the photo need to be?
Most countries require a photo taken within the last 6 months. Some, like the UK, allow up to 1 month if your appearance has changed significantly.
Real-world scenario
First-time applicant: College student applying for their first passport
Emma, a 20-year-old university student, needs her first passport for a study-abroad programme. She takes a selfie against her dorm room wall, but the photo is rejected because the wall is beige (not white), her phone's portrait mode blurred the background edges, and she was wearing her glasses. After checking the requirements on IDPIC, she removes her glasses, stands against a plain white poster board, uses the rear camera with beauty mode off, and uploads the photo to IDPIC for automatic compliance checking. Her second photo passes on the first try.