Can I Be Smiling In My Passport Photo?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Can I smile in my passport photo? Yes, but

it must be a natural, unexaggerated smile

. Both your eyes must be open.

Why are you not allowed to smile in passports?

Biometric scanners for came in during 2005, which allowed an additional facial recognition element to prevent fraudulent use and terrorism. By smiling,

the facial recognition software may not recognise the person's face

.

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

Governments don't want you to smile in a photo for

the simple reason of facial recognition

. A passport photo smile distorts your facial features and makes it almost impossible for matching you to the document, especially when done by a computer.

Will my passport photo be rejected if I smile?

Keep a neutral facial expression


Tilting your head forward or backward, looking down, showing teeth

, or making an emotive expression (such as an overly excited face) will result in a photo that you cannot use for your passport. If you smirk, blink, frown, or wink, take another shot!

Why can't you use a selfie for passport photo?

While these tricks might be a great way to show some personality on your normal selfies, they just can't be used on your passport photo. Instead,

you must ‘have a plain expression and your mouth closed'

. Your eyes must also be wide open, so you'll have to resist the urge to do your most smouldering gaze.

Why do Russians not smile?

In Russian communication, a smile is

not a signal of politeness

. Russians consider a perpetual polite smile an “servant's smile.” It is considered a demonstration of insincerity, secretiveness and unwillingness to show one's true feelings. In Russian communication, it is not acceptable to smile at strangers.

Why shouldnt you smile at a gorilla?

Baring teeth or smiling shows

a fear face

, according to gorilla handler Sharon Redrobe. … Male silverback gorillas are temperamental and prone to violence, and a smile from Okanda could set them off.

What is the best color to wear for passport photos?

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.

Can you show teeth in passport photo 2020?

According to the US Department of State, “unusual expressions”

are forbidden

. No crossing your eyes or sticking your tongue out. Also, squinting is forbidden and you don't want to show your teeth. So, if you naturally have a big, toothy grin that changes the way your entire face looks, tone it down for the camera.

Can I take a passport photo with my phone?


Yes

, you can use your iPhone, Android device, or other smartphone to take your passport photo. Make sure you follow all guidelines when taking the photo to include a white background, good lighting, and a friend for assistance (selfies are not allowed).

What is not allowed in a passport photo?

Passport photos are not the place to make fashion statements. The State Department wants your photo to be “taken in clothing normally worn on a daily basis.” However,

no uniforms

, or clothing that looks like a uniform, or camouflage clothing. You also can't wear a hat or head covering in your photo.

What happens if my passport photo gets rejected?

If the photo

has failed the automatic check

, you must reject the photo. If the photo has failed the automatic check, you, the examiner, must accept the photo if there is no visible distortion or glare. Customers must send photos taken in the last month.

Do your ears have to show in a passport photo?

It says that

passport applicants are NOT required to show their ears

. But there are a lot of other requirements. You do have to have a neutral facial expression with both eyes open. The State Department won't accept your picture if you're squinting or making another “unusual” expression.

Is a selfie OK for passport?

Millions of UK travellers will no longer have to pay to print out passport pictures in photo booths, as photos taken on your phone can now be used for online renewals – but

‘selfies' are not allowed.

What are the rules for passport photos?

  • clear, sharp and in focus.
  • taken with a neutral facial expression. …
  • taken in person by a commercial photographer or studio with: …
  • 50 mm wide X 70 mm high (2 inches wide X 2- 3/4 inches long) …
  • an image of your current appearance, taken within the last six months.

How do I know if my passport photo is acceptable?

  1. be facing forwards and looking straight at the camera.
  2. have a plain expression and your mouth closed.
  3. have your eyes open and visible.
  4. not have hair in front of your eyes.
  5. not have a head covering (unless it's for religious or medical reasons)
  6. not have anything covering your face.
Leah Jackson
Author
Leah Jackson
Leah is a relationship coach with over 10 years of experience working with couples and individuals to improve their relationships. She holds a degree in psychology and has trained with leading relationship experts such as John Gottman and Esther Perel. Leah is passionate about helping people build strong, healthy relationships and providing practical advice to overcome common relationship challenges.