Presenting a Smile in a Passport Photo

Guidelines for passport photos recommend a neutral expression, no wide smiles or open mouths. However, a slight smile may be accepted.

Smiling in Passport Photos: Guidelines and ExceptionsImage Created with AI for Illustration

A smile is an expression of emotions in the face. Smiling is achieved by moving the muscles of the mouth and eyes. It can be spontaneous or artificial, with only the corners of the mouth being pulled back in an artificial smile.

Smiling occurs in response to certain stimuli or situations and is universal across all human civilizations.

Meanings of a Smile

A human smile can have several meanings, including:

Rules for Smiling in Passport Photos

Smiling is not allowed in passport photos. The passport photo guidelines require a neutral expression. Wide smiling or an open mouth is not permitted. You are not allowed to express emotions on your face.

It is up to the official to decide whether your expression is neutral when you apply for your travel document. This is therefore subjectively judged. Our experience is that a slight smile is sometimes allowed.

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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about Rostrio

Review and adjust your order if the total amount is high. Remove unnecessary items from your cart before proceeding with payment.
We generally send multiple photo sheets in one envelope, but they may occasionally arrive separately.
Our passport photos are suitable for official documents like passports, driver's licenses, and ids. They also work for non-official uses.

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