Passport Photo Dress Code 2026
Your passport photo is not just a picture. It is a biometric identity image. The passport photo dress code for 2026 defines what clothes, colors, makeup, jewelry, and hairstyles are allowed in official passport photos. Following these passport photo clothing rules prevents rejection by passport authorities.
What to Wear for a Passport Photo?
Choose simple, everyday clothing that creates clear contrast with the white background.
Why Passport Photo Appearance Rules Matter?
Modern passports rely on facial-recognition systems. Any item or style that conceals, alters, or distorts your natural features can interfere with biometric scanning and lead to photo rejection.
What Clothing Should You Wear?
Choosing the correct outfit is critical under the passport photo clothing rules for 2026. Wearing the wrong clothing is one of the most common reasons passport photos get rejected.
Best clothing choices:
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Solid dark or medium-tone shirts
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Simple crew neck or V-neck tops
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Long or short sleeves
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Plain fabrics without logos or patterns
Avoid these clothing items:
| Do Not Wear | Reason |
|---|---|
| White or light-colored shirts | Blend into the background |
| Uniforms (military, medical, work) | Considered non-civilian attire |
| Camouflage prints | Prohibited in many countries |
| High necklines & turtlenecks | Hide jawline and neck |
| Scarves & shawls | Obstruct facial features |
| Hoodies with hoods up | Hide head shape |
Can I wear makeup for a passport photo?
yes,makeup is allowed, but it must be natural and minimal. According to the passport photo makeup rules for 2026, excessive or dramatic makeup can cause your photo to be rejected.
Allowed makeup:
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Matte foundation
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Light concealer
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Soft neutral eyeshadow
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Natural brow grooming
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Nude or soft pink lipstick
Avoid these makeup styles:
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Heavy contouring or baking
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Glitter, shimmer, or metallic makeup
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Dramatic eyeliner wings
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Thick false eyelashes
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Bright or dark lipstick shades
Tip: Keep makeup as close to your natural skin tone as possible to avoid passport photo rejection.
Accessories That Must Be Removed
Most accessories are not permitted in passport photos because they can block facial features or cause glare. According to the passport photo accessory rules for 2026, wearing restricted items may lead to photo rejection.
Accessories Not Allowed in Passport Photos
| Accessory | Allowed |
|---|---|
| Sunglasses | No |
| Fashion eyeglasses | No |
| Headphones or earbuds | No |
| Hats or caps | No |
| Large earrings | No |
| Headbands that cover the hairline | No |
Hairstyle Rules for Passport Photos
Your hairstyle must keep all facial features clearly visible. Under the passport photo hairstyle rules, hairstyles that block the face or create shadows can cause photo rejection.
Do:
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Keep hair off your face
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Ensure eyebrows and eyes are fully visible
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Keep hairstyles low-volume
Avoid:
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Bangs covering eyes
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Hair over cheeks or forehead
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Decorative hair clips or bows
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High buns or top knots causing shadows
Jewelry Rules
Small studs are allowed. Avoid:
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Hoop earrings
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Dangling earrings
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Large nose rings
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Multiple facial piercings
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Reflective jewelry
Most Common Reasons for Passport Photo Rejection
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Face partially covered
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Clothing blending into background
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Heavy makeup altering facial features
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Wearing prohibited accessories
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Shadows on face
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Low contrast between face and clothing
Final Advice
Your passport photo should look like a clear, neutral identification image, not a fashion portrait. Simple, natural, and unobstructed appearance gives the highest chance of acceptance.
FAQ
Q1: What should I wear in a passport photo?
Wear a solid-colored, medium or dark-tone shirt with a simple neckline. Plain clothing without patterns or logos works best.
Q2: Can I wear makeup in my passport photo?
Yes. Light, natural makeup is allowed as long as it does not change your natural appearance.
Q3: Are hats or head coverings allowed?
Hats and fashion head coverings are not allowed. Only religious or medical head coverings are permitted.
Q4: Can I wear glasses in a passport photo?
No. Glasses are not allowed unless medically required, and even then must not cause glare or shadows.
Q5: What jewelry is acceptable?
Small stud earrings are acceptable. Large, dangling, or reflective jewelry should be avoided.
Q6: Why do passport photos get rejected?
Photos are commonly rejected due to shadows, face obstruction, heavy makeup, prohibited accessories, or clothing that blends into the background.
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