What to Wear for a Passport Photo

Your passport photo may be with you for years, so it is worth a minute's thought about what you wear. The goal is simple: a clear, natural image that looks like you on an ordinary day.

Choose a colour that contrasts with the background

Most passport photos need a plain, light background, often white, off-white or light grey. If you wear a white or very pale top, your shoulders can blend into it. A mid or dark solid colour, such as navy, dark green, burgundy or charcoal, gives a clean outline.

Keep it simple

• Plain tops work better than busy patterns, stripes or large logos, which can be distracting and may show moiré effects in print.
• Everyday clothing is best. Many authorities, including the US, do not accept uniforms or camouflage except in specific cases.
• A collar or neckline that sits neatly helps frame the face. Avoid high collars or scarves that cover the chin.

Hair

Your face needs to be fully visible, so keep hair away from your eyes and eyebrows. Long hair can be worn down as long as it does not cover the face. Remove decorative clips and headbands. If you usually wear your hair a certain way, wearing it the same way helps the photo look like you.

Make-up

Natural, everyday make-up is fine. Avoid heavy glitter or shimmer that can reflect light, and anything that changes your appearance significantly. A light powder can reduce shine on the forehead and nose.

Jewellery and accessories

• Small earrings and simple necklaces are usually fine if nothing covers the face or causes glare.
• Remove large or reflective pieces.
• Remove glasses; many countries no longer allow them.
• Hats and head coverings are not allowed unless worn for religious or medical reasons, and the face must still be fully visible.

Facial hair

Beards and moustaches are fine. If you plan a big change soon, consider whether your photo will still clearly identify you.

Final check

Look at the photo as a passport examiner would: is the whole face clear, is the outline distinct against the background, and is there nothing distracting? Then crop it to the right size with a tool like My Passport Photo Maker and check the official guidance for your country.