United States — Passport Photo

Use the crop preset alongside the specification table and the issuing authority’s instructions. Print and online applications can differ; the final photo must meet the requirements for your application.

United States passport photo specifications

Printed size

51 × 51 mm · 600 × 600 px

Head height (chin to crown)

25 – 35 mm

Background

Background: plain white

Photo age limit

Taken within 6 months

Glasses

Not allowed

Prints to submit

1 print

Rules specific to United States

• Plain white or off-white background. Nothing behind you, no shadow on the wall.
• Taken within the last 6 months, and it must look like you do now.
• Submit the original, unedited photo: no editing software, phone apps, filters, or AI.
• Print on matte or glossy photo-quality paper. Photocopies and scans are not accepted.
• A head covering worn for religious reasons needs a signed statement; for medical reasons, a signed doctor’s note. Either way your full face must be visible with no shadows.

Why passport photos get rejected

• Check framing, lighting and the current application instructions. A correctly sized crop alone does not guarantee acceptance.

Other countries