[2025] US Passport Photo Size: Dimensions, Guidelines & Requirements

A US passport is one of the most important documents for American citizens for traveling abroad, and a key component of the application process is submitting a passport photo that meets the specific U.S. government standards. Any mistake in the passport photo size or format can result in rejection or delays in processing. In this blog post, we will discuss U.S. passport photo size, dimensions, specifications, background, attire, and the most common reasons for rejection.

This guide will help you whether you are applying for a new passport or renewing your old passport and ensure that your photo meets the latest requirements for 2025.

1. What Is the Standard US Passport Photo Size?

The standard US passport photo size is:

• 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm)
• Image file size must be between 54KB and 10MB.

The US passport photo dimensions have been constant for years. The photo must be square and any other dimension of a photo like an oval or rectangle is not acceptable.

2. US Passport Photo Dimensions in Inches, cm & Pixels

To avoid confusion, here’s a quick breakdown of acceptable dimensions across different units:

Unit	Measurement
Inches	2 x 2 inches
Centimeters	5.1 x 5.1 cm
Pixels	600 x 600 pixels minimum
Resolution	300 DPI (dots per inch) or higher

Note: For digital applications, image file size must be between 54KB and 10MB.

3. US Passport Photo Requirements (2025)

The US Department of State has strict criteria:

Photo should take in the last 6 months and it should be a color photo, not black and white. Photo should have a natural facial expression and a natural smile. In the photo eyes must be open and clearly visible. The background of the photo should be plain white, no fancy design should be in the background. In the photo your head should be between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches (25 to 35 mm) from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head and the photo should be sharp, high quality and free from any filters.

4. Background Requirements

The background plays a major role in passport photo acceptance:

The color of the photo should be only white or off-white and the texture of the background should be plain, no patterns or designs should be present on it. Lighting should be uniform and no shadow on the face or background should be present. If there is any furniture on the background of the photo then it could be the cause of rejection.

5. Clothing & Dress Code Guidelines

Clothing and dress code are also important factors. You should wear only everyday clothing, no uniform or camouflage accepted. According to the guideline the background should be in plain white so try to avoid white clothing that blends with the background. Also avoid any religious attire, hats, caps, sunglasses. They are strictly prohibited.

6. Pose, Expression & Head Position

There are certain guidelines for pose, expression and head position which you have to follow. There are :

• Face the camera directly
• Full-face view with eyes open
• Neutral expression or a natural, unexaggerated smile
• No tilting or turning of the head

Head must be centered in the frame. Selfies or photos with dramatic angles will be rejected.

7. Glasses, Hats, and Accessories

Since November 1,2016 glasses are not allowed in the photo unless any medical need and any type of head covering for religious reasons and Jewelry are allowed but it should not obscure the face. Jewelry is permitted.

8. Digital vs. Printed Passport Photos

You can submit either a printed or a digital photo based on how you’re applying:

Type	Details
Printed	2×2 inches, glossy or matte photo paper
Digital	JPEG format, size between 54KB and 10MB, 600×600 pixels minimum

For online applications, use a digital image that meets the exact file requirements. For in-person applications, bring two printed copies.

9. How to Take a US Passport Photo at Home

There are few easy steps to take a passport photo at home that has high probability to get accept:

Don’t worry if you do not have any fancy camera, you can take a beautiful photo with your smartphone.

Firstly choose a white wall for the background or you can hang a white sheet as a background. Then set up good lighting for the photo, ensure that the lighting is even and no shadow is present on the face or background. After setting the lighting, set the smartphone camera at eye level. Take the photo at a proper distance, around 4 feet will be enough. Use an editing tools to crop to 2*2 inches and ensure that the face should be in the center of the photo and don’t use any kind of filters because it can cause rejection. After editing save the photo in JPEG format and then print it.

Free Tools to Use:

• US Department of State’s Photo Tool
• Online services like 123PassportPhoto, IDPhoto4You

11. Common Mistakes That Lead to Rejection

Many people choose the wrong size of their photo , use poor lighting, background is not plain white, wear glasses or hats or use too blurry images for the passport and they get rejected. Avoid these mistakes and follow the above instruction, your application will be 100% approved.

15. Conclusion

If you follow these steps then there is a high probability that your application will be approved otherwise it could be rejected. Whether you’re taking it yourself or getting it professionally done, knowing the US passport photo size, dimension, and requirements is key to a successful application.

16. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the correct size for a US passport photo?

A: 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm).

Q2. Can I smile in my US passport photo?

A: Yes but only a natural smile is allowed. Too much exaggerated expression can cause rejection.

Q3. Are eyeglasses allowed?

A: No, unless you have a medical note from your doctor.

Q4. Can I use a photo taken on my phone?

A: Yes, as long as it meets size, lighting, and quality requirements.

Q5. How recent must the photo be?

A: It must be taken within the last 6 months.

Q6. Can I wear makeup?

A: Yes, light makeup is fine. Avoid anything that changes your natural appearance.