US Passport Photo Rules: 2x2 Size, Background and Rejections
A passport photo has strict rules. The size, background, and even your facial expression all have to match official standards, or your application can be delayed. A good passport photo maker takes a regular photo and turns it into one that meets those rules, without a trip to the drugstore.
What Does a Passport Photo Maker Do?
A passport photo maker resizes your photo to the exact dimensions your country requires, usually 2x2 inches (51x51mm) for a US passport. It centers your face and exports a file ready for digital submission or printing.
How to Make a Passport Photo Online (3 Steps)
- 1Take or upload your photo against a plain white wall with even lighting.
- 2Let the tool crop and resize it to the required dimensions.
- 3Download the digital file or a print-ready sheet.
Passport Photo Requirements You Actually Need to Know
- Size: 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51mm), with your head measuring 1 to 1 3/8 inches from chin to top of hair.
- Background: Plain white or off-white, no shadows, no patterns.
- Expression: Neutral look, both eyes open, mouth closed.
- Glasses: Not allowed in most countries unless you have a signed medical note.
- Recency: Taken within the last six months.
Is AI Background Editing Still Allowed?
As of late 2025, the US State Department restricts AI-generated or AI-edited backgrounds for passport photos submitted through its digital renewal system. For US applications, photograph yourself against a real plain white wall and use a tool that mainly crops and resizes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, for most passports, including the US. Your mouth needs to stay closed and your eyes open. A big, teeth-showing smile can cause the photo to be rejected, so keep it relaxed and subtle.
Generally no. Most countries, including the US, require you to remove glasses unless you have a signed medical statement confirming they cannot be removed.
Yes. It is fully allowed, as long as the final photo meets the size, background, and expression requirements. A passport photo maker tool helps make sure the crop and sizing are correct.
No, not as of late 2025. The US State Department flags AI-generated or digitally altered backgrounds submitted through its online system. For US applications, shoot against a real plain white wall when you can.
For a US passport, it is 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51mm), with your head measuring 1 to 1 3/8 inches from your chin to the top of your hair. Other countries have similar but not identical requirements.
Make a passport photo free
Open Passport Photo Maker
