As the world returns to its pre-pandemic ways, U.S. travelers are gearing up for what promises to be an exciting year of international adventure. But before they can take off, travelers should double check that their passports are in good standing. If not, you will need to apply for passport renewal or a new passport altogether.
Both processes require a new passport photo, and as is true with all of the other official forms and guidelines, submitting a passport photo can be more complicated than you expect. Here’s what you need to know if you need a new passport photo.
Official U.S. Passport Photo Requirements
The following are the official requirements for a U.S. passport photo, per the U.S. Department of State.
- Photo must be in color
- Photo must be taken within the last 6 months
- Photo must include a clear image of your face
- Photo must be taken by someone else
- Do not wear eyeglasses in your photo
- Photo must be taken with a plain white or off-white background
Why Passport Photos Get Rejected
Even with the federal guidelines stated above, it’s common for travelers to have their submitted passport photo rejected when applying for or renewing a passport. Here are a few of the most common reasons passport photos are rejected.
Unnatural smile: It’s OK to smile for your passport photo, but an exaggerated or forced smile are grounds for rejection. If you’re unsure if your smile appears exaggerated or forced, a neutral facial expression is always the safest option.
Low-quality paper: Your photo cannot be submitted digitally and must be printed on matte or glossy paper. Postal Annex has all of the photo equipment and materials necessary, including glossy paper.
Digital alterations: Any alterations to your photo, including filters, changing the background color, and red-eye touch ups will result in rejection.
Posing: You must face the camera with your full face in view. Adjusting the angle of your face in relation to the camera will result in rejection.
Shadows: No hats or head coverings are allowed unless it’s for religious purposes. If you do wear a hat, head covering, or have long hair, they cannot cast shadows that distort your face.
Wrong size or dimensions: Perhaps the most common reason for rejection is submitting a photo that is the wrong size or has the wrong dimensions. Photos must be 2x2 inches, and your head must be between 1 and 1 ⅜ inches from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head.
Where to Take a Passport Photo
As you can probably tell, taking a passport photo is not as easy as posting to Instagram. Ensuring a proper photo is taken and submitted requires attention to detail, and it’s essential for getting your application accepted.
While you can get your photo taken at a passport acceptance facility, it’s much cheaper to get it taken at Postal Annex. Not only can you rely on the experts at Postal Annex to take a photo that will be accepted, but our experts can also help you with any official documents that must be prepared for an application. If you have any questions about applying for a passport, renewing a passport, or submitting a passport photo, call 1-800-767-8252, or visit a Postal Annex location in your area.