What Are the Guidelines for Passport Photos?

Guidelines for Passport Photos

The exact rules for passport photos depend on the issuing country, document, and application method. Use the document-specific requirements for exact dimensions, units, background colour, head position, expression, glasses, head coverings, recency, and file or print format.

Across many applications, a useful starting point is to:

• Use a Sharp, High-Resolution Photo Without Blur or Compression Artefacts;
• Keep the Face Fully Visible and Look Directly at the Camera;
• Use Even Lighting Without Shadows or Overexposure;
• Avoid Filters or Edits That Change Your Appearance;
• Use a Plain Background That Matches the Selected Document's Rules; And
• Submit the Digital File or Print Format Requested by the Issuing Authority.

These are general preparation tips, not a replacement for the official rules. Select the correct country and document before using our passport photo software so the relevant requirements can be applied.