📸 VisaPicPro
🇺🇸 Official Requirements

US Passport Photo Requirements 2026

Create a 2×2 inch passport photo that meets all U.S. State Department requirements. White background, no glasses, proper head size — all done automatically.

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2×2"
51×51mm
✓ Free
2×2"
Photo Size
1-1⅜"
Head Height
White
Background
No
Glasses

Official US Passport Photo Requirements

The U.S. Department of State has strict requirements for passport photos. Photos that don't meet these specifications will be rejected, causing delays in your application.

Size Requirements

Photo Size 2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm)
Head Height 1" to 1⅜" (25mm to 35mm)
Eye Position 1⅛" to 1⅜" from bottom
Resolution 600 × 600 pixels minimum
File Size (digital) 240KB to 10MB

Photo Guidelines

  • Taken within the last 6 months
  • White or off-white plain background
  • Face directly facing the camera
  • Neutral expression with both eyes open
  • Proper lighting with no shadows
  • Normal everyday clothing
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Important: No Glasses Policy

Since November 1, 2016, the U.S. State Department no longer accepts passport photos where the applicant is wearing glasses. This applies to all types of eyewear, including:

  • Prescription glasses
  • Reading glasses
  • Sunglasses
  • Tinted lenses

Exception: Only allowed with a signed medical statement from a doctor explaining why glasses cannot be removed.

What's NOT Allowed

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Glasses
Since Nov 2016
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Headphones
Any wireless devices
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Hats
Except religious
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Uniforms
Except religious

Why Choose VisaPicPro Over CVS/Walgreens?

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Save $15+

CVS charges $16.99, Walgreens $14.99. VisaPicPro is 100% free. Print for under $1 at any store.

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Instant Results

No waiting, no appointment. Create your photo in 60 seconds from home, any time of day.

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Unlimited Retakes

Not happy with the result? Try again for free. At stores, you pay each time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size is a US passport photo?
A US passport photo must be exactly 2×2 inches (51×51mm). The head, measured from the bottom of the chin to the top of the hair, must be between 1 inch and 1⅜ inches (25mm to 35mm). For digital submissions, the minimum resolution is 600×600 pixels.
Can I smile in my passport photo?
You should have a neutral facial expression or a natural smile. Avoid wide grins that show teeth excessively or change the natural appearance of your face. Both eyes must be open and looking directly at the camera.
How much does a passport photo cost at CVS?
CVS charges approximately $16.99 for passport photos, and Walgreens charges around $14.99. With VisaPicPro, you can create compliant passport photos for free and print them at any photo center for under $1.
Can I take my own passport photo at home?
Yes! You can take your passport photo at home using your smartphone. Stand against a plain white wall, ensure good lighting (natural light works best), and have someone take the photo at eye level. Then use VisaPicPro to process it to the correct size and specifications.
Where can I print my passport photo?
After creating your photo with VisaPicPro, you can print it at:
  • CVS Photo Center (around $0.35 per 4×6 print)
  • Walgreens Photo (around $0.35 per 4×6 print)
  • Walmart Photo Center
  • Costco Photo Center
  • Any local photo printing service
  • Home printer on photo paper

Other US Photo Types

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