US Passport Photo Online Tool

Photo Guidelines for U.S. Passport

A passport photograph in the United States is an important image that must be submitted in order to be considered for this document. It is a biometric photograph that highlights the unique biometric features of each individual's face. This enables officials to quickly and easily identify the subject of the photograph through the use of specialized biometric programs. Notably, a biometric photo can be taken at home using an iPhone or other digital camera-equipped device. The file can be created quickly and easily using the Perfect Passport Photos app or a web-based tool.

Requirements for US Passport Photos

According to the US Department of State, passport photos that do not comply with official criteria are the leading cause of application delays. Although proper execution of the US passport image involves familiarity with the detailed specifications, such a photo can still be taken at home and prepared using Perfect Passport Photos. Learn more!

• Size

The proper size for a US passport photo is 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm). Each image must have its own set of definition parameters. It is critical that the head in the photograph measures between 1 and 1.4 inches (25 and 35 mm) in circumference from the bottom of the chin to the crown of the head. Additionally, the head must be centered in the image. The frame should completely enclose the head, neck, and upper shoulders. This cannot be accomplished by taking the photograph too close or too far.

• Quality

The photo must be in focus, with no visible pixels or printer dots. Print it on matte or glossy photo paper. The picture cannot be changed by any computer program and you cannot apply filters to it. 

• Resolution

The resolution of a digital photo for a US passport must be at least 300 dpi, but it is preferable to take a photo with a resolution of at least 600 dpi. This enables you to print the image in high resolution. As a result, you have a better chance of your application not being rejected.

• Background

Background is a important requirement for US photo passports. It should be consistent, plain, and white or off-white in color. Also, ensure that the picture's background is free of shadows on the face, shoulders, and back.

• Lighting

The photograph must be properly exposed - it cannot be either over or underexposed. The light should evenly illuminate the entire face and should not cast shadows across the face, arms, or back. Everything is done to ensure an appropriate contrast between the background and the subject of the photograph.

• Face

You must face directly toward the camera in the US passport photograph. Similarly, your arms should be parallel to the ground. Half-profile photographs are not permitted and will result in the image being rejected, as well as the entire passport application.

You must maintain a neutral expression on your face. Avoid smiling and exposing your teeth. You cannot laugh in the photograph and must keep your mouth close.

• Glasses and eyes

You cannot wear glasses in a passport photo in the United States, unlike in Europe. Neither prescription lenses nor sunglasses or tinted lenses are permitted. All of this is done to ensure that the glasses' frames or lenses do not cover the person's eyes in the photograph. Your eyes must be open and you must face the camera directly. The eyes' pupils and irises must be visible in the image.

• Hair and headcovers

Do not cover your face with your hair because it must be visible. The oval of your face, as well as your brows, must be visible in the biometric photos. Move your fringe to the side if you have one.

Image headcovers for US passports are generally prohibited. Only headgear worn for medical or religious reasons, such as head scarves or Jewish skullcaps, is permitted by the US Department of State. However, you must provide either a signed statement from a physician confirming that the headgear is used daily for medical purposes or a signed statement from a recognized, traditional religious garment that must be worn continuously in public. Remember that hats cannot cast shadows or cover even a small portion of the face.

• Clothing

The US passport photo does not have an official dress code. You may dress casually as long as they are not extravagant. It is strictly prohibited to wear a uniform or military attire.

The more critical issue is the clothing color in the US passport photo. Consider a color other than white and black. These colors interfere with the contrast between the background and the subject of the photograph. The best colors are those that stand out against the background.

How can I take a U.S. passport photo over the phone?

It is enough to pose for a photo in accordance with the requirements for a US passport photo, and put the photo file into the tool, which will prepare a photo from it ready for printing or sending online for application. See how it works exactly:

• In the daylight, stand in front of an open window; if the light is insufficient, install an additional lamp.
• Ask someone to photograph you, or place the camera on a tripod about 4 feet away.
• Pose according to the requirements of the US Photo Passport.
• Upload your image using the app or the online editor.
• Receive a digital photo or print-ready 4x6 template as an e-mail attachment.

How Perfect Passport Photos tool works?

- Intelligent Background removal

You don't need to use any tools like (Photoshop or Illustrator) to remove backgrounds. The background will be removed from the photo automatically by our intelligent tool, leaving it completely white and without of objects.

- Crop & Resize 

It crops the US passport photo to the proper size and creates the appropriate frame from which you can print or email the photos.

- Photo Verification

Our Intelligent program verifies the head's position and height in the photograph, as well as the visibility of all facial biometric features. Additionally, it verifies that the image has a normal contrast and lighting. When something goes wrong, you are informed that the shot must be repeated.

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Read more about U.S. Passport

A United States passport is a multi-purpose document. It serves as an identity document, allows you to travel to foreign countries, and can be used as proof of citizenship in the United States. The current US passport is a biometric passport, which includes a biometric passport photo as well as an electronic chip with vital information about the document's owner. The passport has a navy blue cover and looks like a booklet.

Who is eligible to apply?

Only US citizens and non-citizen nationals, i.e. people who have a permanent allegiance to the US, are eligible to apply for a US passport. A legal guardian or parent can apply for a passport on behalf of a minor (under the age of 16). A passport can also be issued to a dual national who already has a passport from another country. An actual US passport photo of size 2 x 2 in, a birth certificate or naturalization certificate, and in-state valid photo ID are required to apply for an American passport.

When can I apply for a US passport?

• The applicant has never previously held a United States passport.
• The applicant must be at least 16 years old.
• When his previous passport was issued, the applicant was under the age of 16 years.
• The last passport issued to the applicant was more than 15 years ago.
• US passport have been lost or stolen.
• The applicant's name has changed.

Which is better, a US passport book or a US passport card?

In the United States of America, you may apply for either a US passport book or a US passport card. Because the booklet allows for international travel by air, sea, or land, it has a broader application. A US passport card, on the other hand, cannot be used for international air travel. It enables you to enter the United States only through land border crossings and sea ports of entry located in Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, or Bermuda. Additionally, keep in mind that passport books and cards are acceptable substitutes for state-issued ID.

What are the fees and how long is the validity period?

For first-time applicants aged 16 and up, the US passport book costs $145. These documents are valid for a period of ten years. Applicants under the age of 16 must pay $115 for their documents, which are only valid for 5 years. The cost of renewing a US passport by mail is $110.