Passport Picture Size

If you're submitting an application for a passport, you'll also have to submit a passport picture with your application. To do this properly, you need to know the correct passport picture size to submit. For U.S. passports, your passport picture size should be 2 inches by 2 inches (51 mm by 51 mm). In addition to the photo size, there are also a number of other specifics related to the way the photo is taken that are necessary for the passport image to be accepted.

  • The passport picture must be 2 inches by 2 inches (51 mm by 51 mm)
  • The top of your hair to the bottom of your chin should measure between 1 inch to 1 3/8 inches (25 mm - 35 mm) within the picture.
  • Your eyes must be between 1 1/8 inches to 1 3/8 inches (28 mm – 35 mm) from the bottom of the picture.

Passport Picture Specifics

  • The photo must be color. Black and white passport pictures aren't acceptable.
  • The picture must be printed on high quality glossy or matte photo paper.
  • The passport picture background must be white or off-white.
  • You can't digitally manipulate your image or use a filter.
  • The picture can't be over or underexposed.
  • Selfies are not allowed. The passport picture should be taken by another person.

Passport Picture Pose & Expression

  • You must have a neutral expression on your face. A smile is okay, but it must be natural and not forced.
  • You must be facing straight ahead with your full face showing, not a profile, and you must show the entire head.
  • Both your eyes must be open.
  • The picture must be recent and taken within the last 6 months.
  • The image must reflect your current appearance.

Acceptable Passport Picture Attire

  • No eyeglasses. If you wear eyeglasses, you should take them off for the passport photo.
  • You should wear the clothes you normally wear each day at home.
  • You can't wear any type of uniform or clothes that appear to be a uniform.
  • No hats or other head wear should be worn in the picture.
  • No headphones or other wireless devices should appear in the picture.
  • It's acceptable to wear jewelry as long as it doesn't obscure your face.
  • It's acceptable to wear piercings as long as they don't obscure your face.
  • Permanent tattoos are acceptable and shouldn't be hidden.

Passport Image Size (digital)

If you're planning to submit your own digital photo to print or have someone else print it for you, the passport image size should have a square aspect ratio (the height and width should be the same). The minimum dimensions for this digital passport picture should be 600 pixels by 600 pixels while the maximum dimensions being 1200 pixels by 1200 pixels. The passport image file size should be 240 kilobytes or less.

Passport Picture Size

Frequently asked questions

What is the size of a US passport picture?

A US passport picture must be 2 inches by 2 inches. There are also a list other specifics besides size a passport picture must meet to be acceptable by the passport office.

Where is the cheapest place to get passport photos?

Prices vary from area to area, but usually the least expensive place to get passport photos is at a Costco photo center.

What is the size of a UK passport photo?

A UK passport photo must be 35 mm (width) by 45 mm (height)