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Can you wear a headscarf in a passport photo?

Author

James Holden

Published Mar 04, 2026

Can you wear a headscarf in a passport photo?

No hats are allowed in passport photos unless it is religious headgear such as a headscarf or yarmulke that you wear every day. For example, you may wear a hijab scarf, but not a niqab that covers most of your face. You'll also need to submit a letter explaining that you wear the item for religious reasons every day.

Similarly, you may ask, are wigs allowed in passport photos?

Do not wear a hat or headgear that obscures the hair or hair line. If you normally wear a hearing device, wig or similar articles, they should be worn for your picture. Starting November 1, 2016, eye glasses will no longer be allowed in passport photos.

Also, what is the best color to wear for passport photos? Background and AngleYour passport photo should be taken against a uniform white or off-white background, and you must look straight ahead into the camera. The rule about face angle is relaxed somewhat for infants, although they must still be photographed against a white or off-white background.

Besides, is there a dress code for passport photo?

Since passport photos must be taken against a plain white or off-white background, do not wear white or off-white clothing in your picture. Wear a color that will contrast with your background, like black, brown or navy. If you wear religious clothing on a daily basis, you may wear it in your photograph.

Do you have to wear a collared shirt for passport pictures?

Passport photos aren't the time to wear tank tops or low-cut silhouettes. We know they're extremely cute and flattering, but passport photos are cropped, so you might want to avoid looking as though you're just wearing your birthday suit. Stick with high-neck or collared shirts for a foolproof photo.

Do you need to show ears in passport photos?

The State Department filled us in: It says that passport applicants are NOT required to show their ears. The State Department won't accept your picture if you're squinting or making another “unusual” expression. Applicants also can't wear head coverings, except for those items worn for religious purposes.

Are glasses allowed in passport photos?

Can I wear glasses, sunglasses, or tinted glasses in my passport photo? No, take them off for your passport photo. If you cannot remove your glasses for medical reasons, you must submit a signed statement from your doctor with your passport application.

Can you wear turtleneck in passport photo?

Don't wear neck scarves or turtle neck sweaters. Your neck and chin must be exposed in the photo. Don't wear strapless style shirts or tank tops. You only need one for your passport application, but it's always good to have an ID style photo available for other needs.

Can you wear jewelry for passport photo?

You can wear jewelry and keep on your facial piercings as long as they do not hide your face. Permanent tattoos are acceptable for passport purposes as well.

Why do you need two passport photos?

Why do you need extra passport photos handy? While traveling abroad, you must carry extra passport photos with you. This is because you are required to submit passport photos for a Visa or for any other application forms. If you have extra passport photos handy, you can save both- money as well as time.

What hair color should I put on my passport?

Your hair or eyes are an in-between color.
Choose the color that seems the closest. For instance, if you have auburn hair, you can select either brown or red as your hair color. The State Department will not reject your application if you say your hair is red and they think it looks more brown in the photo!

How many photos are required for passport?

Yes, All applicants need to carry two coloured photographs (size 4.5 x 3.5 cm) with white background. Applicants should affix photographs on the printed copy of the online filled application form. First photograph needs to be affixed on the first page of the application form without any signature/stamp.

Can I take my own passport picture?

Use a mobile app
Just take a picture with your phone. There are plenty of passport apps available for both iOS and Android users, though our favorite is Passport Photo Creator (iOS, Android). The app displays an outline using your smartphone's front or rear camera, which helps you better position your face and body.

Why are you not allowed to smile in your passport photo?

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) recommends that passport photos be taken with a "neutral expression" (you can't smile or frown) for use with facial recognition (FR) systems. When a mouth is open on a passport photo, it makes it difficult for the FR to work properly.

Can I smile in my visa photo?

Smile: It's encouraged to use a neutral expression, however, you can use a soft, natural smile if preferred. Eyes: Open and visible.

What are you not allowed to wear in a passport photo?

Photos should be taken in clothing that you normally wear on a daily basis: Uniforms should not be worn in your photo, except religious clothing that is worn daily. Headphones, wireless hands-free devices or similar items are not acceptable in your photo. Eye Glasses are NOT Allowed In Passport Photos.

Can you wear black in a passport photo?

DO consider wearing a color other than black or white. Your photo will have a plain white background, so a colored shirt will help ensure your photo doesn't look washed out. Is there some color you always get compliments when you wear? Go ahead and wear it for your passport photo!

Do passport photos have to be in color?

Photo Requirements
The State Department has specific requirements for U.S. passport photos. Each passport photograph must be in color, on a white or off-white background and printed on matte or glossy paper. The size should be 2 inches by 2 inches, with your head between 1 and 1 3/8 inches.

How do I take a good passport photo?

Clothing DOs and DON'Ts
  1. DON'T wear glasses!
  2. DON'T wear anything on your head – no hats, headbands, or scarves.
  3. DON'T wear a uniform of any sort.
  4. DO opt for business attire or a collared shirt for your passport photos.
  5. DO wear a shirt or dress with a high enough neckline that it will show in the final picture.

Why do I look bad in passport photos?

It is normally taken at distance you are not familiar with, and also they are often taken with fairly bad lighting. In the case of ladies, they often used wrong make up as well. It is lot to do with type of lens/camera typically used for passport photo and distance between camera/lens and you which alter perspective.

Is there a dress code in DFA?

TIP # 6 – There is a dress code. And chaperones are only allowed for senior citizens and persons with disabilities. Consider your passport renewal a special occasion so dress up properly, which means no tank tops or sleeveless shirts, shorts, sandals or slippers allowed.

Can you wear makeup in a passport photo Philippines?

1. Wear light makeup. More and more cosmetic brands have embraced the wide range of Filipino colour, so you won't have much trouble with this. Apply concealer on red marks and dark spots, as passport photos have a special talent of overtly emphasising problem areas.

What should I wear to DFA appointment?

Consider your passport renewal a special occasion so dress up properly, which means no tank tops or sleeveless shirts, shorts, sandals or slippers allowed. If you are wearing contact lenses or earrings, be advised that you will be asked to remove them when your passport photo gets taken.

How do you look good in ID pictures?

You'll never be dyahe to show your ID to someone else anymore!
  1. Stick to a no-makeup look.
  2. Avoid wearing shimmery makeup.
  3. Stay away from makeup with SPF.
  4. Keep your T-zone shine-free.
  5. Use a brightening concealer on the undereye area.
  6. Fix your hair.
  7. Learn how to smize.
  8. Wear neutral-colored clothes.