🇺🇸 United States passport photo: size and requirements
50.8 × 50.8 mm, white background, head 25–35 mm. Make yours below. Your photo never leaves your device.
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United States passport photo requirements
| Photo size | 50.8 × 50.8 mm (2.00 × 2.00 in) |
|---|---|
| Pixels at 300 dpi | 600 × 600 px |
| Head height (chin to crown) | 25–35 mm |
| Background | White |
| Online upload | At least 600 × 600 px, up to 1200 × 1200 px, up to 240 KB. Square JPEG for online upload. |
| Editing | The official page says the photo must not be altered by software. Replacing the background counts as an edit, so keep your original background if it is already plain and light. |
| Source | U.S. Department of State: Photo requirements · verified 2026-10-24 |
Rules to follow
- Taken within the last 6 months.
- Plain white or off-white background, no shadows.
- Face the camera directly with a neutral expression, both eyes open and mouth closed.
- No glasses, with rare exceptions that need a medical statement.
- No filters, retouching or AI alteration of your face.
Common reasons photos are rejected
- Shadows on face or background
- Head too small or too large
- Glasses or glare
- Photo edited or filtered
- Blurry or low resolution
Our live checks flag most of these before you pay.
Frequently asked questions
What size is a United States passport photo?
50.8 × 50.8 mm (2.00 × 2.00 inches), which is 600 × 600 pixels at 300 dpi.
What background colour is required?
White. The background should be even, with no shadows, patterns or objects.
How big should my head be in the photo?
The head, measured from chin to the top of the head, should be between 25 and 35 mm.
Can I take the photo at home?
Generally yes, if it meets the rules above. Use even daylight, a plain wall, and have someone else take it at eye level. Always confirm with the issuing authority.
SelfPassPhoto is not affiliated with any government. Requirements change; the issuing authority's current guidance always takes precedence.