What to Wear for a Passport Photo: Dress Code Tips

Getting ready for your passport photo? Don’t let your outfit be the reason your application gets rejected. It may sound simple, but what you wear for your passport photo matters more than you might think. From background clashes to strict government rules, dressing incorrectly can lead to delays, retakes, and frustration.

Whether you're a tech-savvy traveler or a parent snapping a child’s photo, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the passport photo dress code. Let’s get your passport photo right the first time!

What You Can and Can’t Wear in a Passport Photo

Official U.S. Passport Photo Rules

The U.S. Department of State has clear rules on what your passport photo should look like. Some of these rules include:

• Your full face must be clearly visible.
• The photo must show your shoulders and head.
• A white or off-white background is required.
• You must face the camera directly with open eyes and a neutral facial expression.

When it comes to clothing:

• No uniforms (military or civilian).
• No camouflage prints.
• No extravagant clothing or costumes.
• No white or light colors that blend into the background.

Common Clothing Mistakes

These common errors often lead to rejected passport photos:

• Wearing a white shirt that matches the background.
• Wearing hats, headbands, or sunglasses.
• Using patterned or glittery clothes that reflect light.

Always aim for simplicity and contrast against a white background.

Dress Code Tips for a Compliant Passport Photo

Best Colors to Wear

To ensure your photo is accepted:

• Choose dark, solid-colored clothing like navy, dark grey, black, or forest green.
• Avoid white, off-white, beige, or pastels.
• Avoid busy patterns, graphics, or stripes.

Why does this matter? Wearing light-colored clothing against a light background can make your shoulders "disappear," making the image appear unprofessional.

Necklines and Sleeves Matter

• Avoid sleeveless or strapless tops. These can make it seem like you’re not wearing anything.
• T-shirts or collared shirts work best, providing a balanced and neat appearance.

Make sure your neckline is visible and not cut off by camera framing.

Passport photo must be 2x2—see sizing rules and tips here

Hair, Makeup, and Accessories: Keep It Simple

Hair Guidelines

• Hair should not cover your eyes or any part of your face.
• Avoid large hair clips, pins, or ponytails that cast shadows or make your head look tilted.
• Long hair should be neatly arranged behind your shoulders.

Makeup Do’s and Don’ts

• Keep it natural. Think neutral tones and avoid heavy makeup.
• Avoid shiny foundation or sparkly makeup.
• Matte textures work best to prevent flash glare.

Jewelry & Accessories

• Minimal jewelry is fine but should not block your face or cast a shadow.
• Avoid chunky earrings or large statement necklaces.

Less is more. Your photo should focus on your face, not your accessories.

Religious Headwear and Cultural Clothing

What’s Permitted

Religious headwear is allowed, but it must:

• Do not cover your face.
• Show your full face from chin to forehead.
• Do not cast shadows on your face.

Examples include hijabs, turbans, and yarmulkes, as long as your facial features are clearly visible.

Documentation and Exceptions

You do not usually need to provide a note for religious headwear, but in some cases, embassies may request written confirmation.

For official guidelines, refer to the U.S. Department of State’s photo rules.

What Not to Wear: Avoid These Rejections

Most Common Rejection Reasons

• Wearing light-colored clothing against a white background.
• Wearing a hat or hoodie.
• Having your face obscured by hair or accessories.
• Wearing glasses.
• Wearing reflective or sparkly materials.

Lighting and Background Considerations

• Avoid harsh shadows. Use soft, even lighting.
• Use a white or light gray background.
• Avoid overexposure (too much brightness).
• Don’t stand too close to the background to avoid shadows.

How to Fix a Bad Passport Photo (Fast!)

Use a Passport Photo Tool

If you have already taken a photo and it doesn’t meet the standards, don’t worry!

Online tools like ConversionFree can help you:

• Adjust the background to white.
• Resize your image to 2x2 inches.
• Crop the photo to the correct framing.

All you have to do is upload your photo, and the tool handles the rest.

Edit Background and Size Issues

• Many photos are rejected for size errors or improper backgrounds.
• Use the tool to:
  • Auto-correct image size (e.g., 2x2 inches for U.S. or 35mm x 45mm for other countries).
  • Auto-align the face according to passport specifications.

Save Time and Avoid Rejections

• No need to go to a studio or booth.
• Preview your image before downloading.
• Get a digital copy instantly or print it at home.

Want to know more? Read our complete guide on passport photo requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wear glasses in a passport photo?

No, unless you have a signed medical waiver. All other types of glasses, including sunglasses, are not allowed.

What color shirt should I wear?

Dark, solid colors like navy blue, dark gray, or black. Avoid white and pastels.

Can I smile in my passport photo?

A natural, neutral facial expression is required. Slight smiling is acceptable, but no open-mouth smiles or exaggerated expressions.

Is makeup allowed in a passport photo?

Yes, but keep it natural. Avoid bright lipstick, glittery eyeshadow, or anything that alters your appearance.

Can I take a passport photo with my phone?

Yes! With good lighting and a plain background, you can take a passport photo using your smartphone. Then, process it using an online tool like ConversionFree.

Conclusion

Your passport photo is more than just a picture—it’s a key part of your identity document. Choosing the right outfit can make the difference between an accepted photo and a frustrating rejection.

Here’s what you need to remember:

• Avoid white or light-colored clothes.
• Choose solid dark colors.
• Keep accessories and makeup minimal.
• Always follow official guidelines.
  
  Need help? Use our passport photo tool now to fix lighting, crop, and background in just a few clicks.