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United States Passport photo
Official specifications
| Photo size | 51 x 51 mm (2.01 x 2.01 in) |
|---|---|
| Pixels | 600 x 600 px (digital upload) |
| Head height (chin to crown) | 25–35 mm |
| Eye line from bottom | 28–35 mm |
| Background | white |
| Glasses | Not allowed |
| Edited background | Not allowed: we only crop |
| Official source | travel.state.gov verified 2026-10-22 (official source) |
State Dept: submit original, unedited photo; background replaced with retouching tools is rejected. We only crop. Eye-line range from State Dept composition template (unverified).
How to take a photo that passes
- Face the camera straight on with a neutral expression and both eyes open.
- Use soft, even light from the front, with no shadows on your face or behind you.
- Stand about 50 cm from a plain white wall.
- Take off your glasses. Remove hats and keep hair off your eyes.
- Ask someone else to take it, or use a timer with the phone at eye level.
Make your photo
Upload a photo or take a selfie. Hold your phone at eye level, about an arm's length away. Keep a neutral expression with your eyes open.
FAQ
What size is a United States passport photo?
51 x 51 mm (600x600 pixels for online upload). The head, from chin to the top of the hair, must be 25–35 mm.
What background color is required?
A plain, uniform white background with no shadows or patterns.
Can I wear glasses?
No. Take your glasses off for the photo.
Can you replace my background?
No. The official rules say the photo must not be digitally edited. We only crop and scale your photo, so take it against a plain light wall.
What if my photo is rejected?
If an official office rejects the photo we made, email us within 30 days for a full refund.
How long do you keep my photo?
We delete every photo and file automatically within 24 hours. We never use your photos for training or marketing.