Passport Photo With Glasses: Rules

In an age where travel and identification are becoming increasingly streamlined, the rules and regulations surrounding passport photos remain a steadfast necessity. For those who wear glasses daily, understanding the guidelines for passport photos with glasses is crucial to ensure a hassle-free experience when obtaining or renewing a passport. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the guidelines provided by passport agencies, addressing common concerns and queries.

Table of contents

• Can you take a passport photo with glasses if you wear them daily?
• Can you take a passport photo with contact lenses?
• Why doesn't the U.S. accept passport and visa photos with glasses?
• Passport photo with glasses in the U.S.: when is it possible?
• What glasses to wear for a passport photo?
• Taking passport photo at home: helpful tips
• Process your passport photo online!

Can you take a passport photo with glasses if you wear them daily?

The rules regarding passport photos with glasses vary depending on the country and its specific guidelines.

Thus, in the U.S., passport photo requirements discourage wearing glasses unless there are valid medical reasons for wearing them uninterrupted. You must take off your glasses when taking a photo for the U.S. passport, visa, DV Lottery entry, or any other American documents. Being aware of these rules and ready to remove your glasses can ensure a smoother passport application or renewal process.

Rules are more relaxed in the EU, the UK, Canada, Australia, Singapore, and many other countries: you can keep your glasses on as long as you can see your eyes clearly through them and the frames don't distort your facial features. This means you may be required to remove your glasses or adjust their position to minimize obstructions.

Can you take a passport photo with contact lenses?

When taking a passport picture with contact lenses, it is essential to note that the lenses should be clear and not obstruct or alter your natural eye color. The purpose of a passport photo is to represent your appearance accurately, and any changes to your eye color caused by tinted or colored contact lenses may not be permitted.

The passport-issuing authority typically requires that your eyes be shown as they naturally appear, without any enhancements or alterations. Therefore, if you wear contact lenses, ensure that they are transparent and allow your natural eye color to be clearly visible in the passport photo.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure that your passport photo accurately represents your true identity. and there are no reflections or distortions caused by the contact lenses. Follow the specific guidelines provided by the passport-issuing authority in your country to ensure compliance and to guarantee that your contact lenses do not interfere with the clarity and accuracy of your ID photo.

Why doesn't the U.S. accept passport and visa photos with glasses?

Since 2026, the U.S. has introduced guidelines that do not permit passport and visa photos with glasses, except for rare circumstances. There are a few reasons behind this restriction. The primary one is the potential for glare or reflections on the lenses, which can obstruct the eyes' view and affect the photo's accuracy and quality. For identification purposes, passport and visa photos must clearly show the person's facial features, including the eyes.

Additionally, glasses can alter a person's appearance significantly, making it harder for facial recognition technology to match the photo with the individual. This can create challenges in verifying identity during immigration processes.

Removing glasses helps provide consistency in facial recognition technology and streamlines the verification process.

Passport photo with glasses in the U.S.: when is it possible?

In the United States, passport photos with glasses are generally not accepted unless there is a valid medical or religious reason for wearing them. The U.S. Department of State's guidelines states that if you require glasses for medical reasons, such as recent surgery or a visual impairment, you may be allowed to wear them in your ID photo. However, a signed statement from your doctor or optometrist is typically required to accompany your passport application to explain the necessity of wearing glasses. It's important to note that fashion or non-prescription glasses are not considered valid reasons for wearing them in a passport photo.

Religious reasons for having glasses in a passport photo may also be considered case-by-case. If your religion requires you to wear glasses that do not obstruct your facial features, you may be able to obtain an exemption. However, you will likely need to provide a written statement explaining the religious requirement and demonstrate that the glasses do not hinder your facial recognition.

In general, it is recommended to consult the U.S. Department of State's guidelines or contact the nearest passport agency for specific information and requirements regarding passport photos with glasses in the United States.

What glasses to wear for a passport photo?

If the authorities issuing your document don't mind glasses on the ID photo, some rules still need to be followed.

When taking a passport photo, wearing glasses free from strong reflections and glare is best. Choose frames that are simple and do not obscure your eyes. Opt for glasses with non-reflective coatings if possible, as they can help minimize any potential glare. Your eyes must be clearly visible and not obstructed by the frames, ensuring that your passport photo meets the required guidelines for identification purposes.

Taking passport photo at home: helpful tips

When taking a passport photo at home, there are a few practical tips to keep in mind. First, ensure that you have a neutral background without any distracting objects (you can skip this point if you use Visafoto to edit the background). Use good lighting to avoid shadows on your face and ensure that your face is evenly illuminated.

Maintain a natural facial expression and ensure your eyes are open and visible. Follow the specific guidelines the passport-issuing authority provides regarding dimensions, resolution, and other requirements.

Using a tripod or having someone assist you in ensuring a steady and properly aligned photo can be helpful. Lastly, double-check that your attire adheres to the dress code specified by the passport-issuing authority.

Here you can find a comprehensive guideline on how to take a perfect passport photo on your own.

Process your passport photo online!

Processing your passport photo online has never been easier with the help of services like Visafoto. Visafoto offers a convenient and reliable solution for creating compliant passport photos from your home.

With just a few simple steps, you can upload your own photo and have it automatically adjusted to meet the specific requirements of your country's passport regulations. Visafoto ensures that your photo will have the correct size, background, and other technical parameters.

This online service eliminates the stress and hassle of taking a passport photo, providing a time-saving and efficient solution that guarantees professional results.