2 x 2 in 路 Updated 2026-05-04

United States Passport Photo Requirements

Resize and check a us passport photo against measurable rules before you print, upload, or decide a fresh photo is safer.

The State Department warns against altered photos. Background cleanup, face reshaping, skin smoothing, or AI edits can trigger rejection; use edits only to prepare crop and sizing, then review against the checklist.
United States passport cover illustration

At a glance

Printed size
2 x 2 in
Metric size
51 x 51 mm
Digital note
Online renewal photos are uploaded during the application flow; keep the final image square and follow the State Department crop guidance.
Background
Plain white or off-white background with no shadows, texture, or lines.
Head position
Face the camera directly. Head height should be 1 to 1 3/8 in from chin to top of head, with eyes open and a neutral expression.
File note
Use a clear color image. Avoid filters, heavy compression, screenshots, scans of old photos, and photos older than 6 months.
Free check and resize in your browser

Check and resize your passport photo

Choose the exact document, review the basic file and crop checks, and sign in only if you want optional AI background or crop cleanup.

No sign-in needed
Free resize
AI optional

144 countries/regions, 454 document sizes

Selected: United States passport photo
Popular countries and regions
Document types
51 x 51 mm600 x 600px export
SpecsHead height around 25-35 mm
Try a sample

Free check results

Use these results as a preparation checklist, not as a government approval guarantee.

Upload a photo or choose a sample, then run the free check to see document requirements.
Optional AI cleanup

Use AI only if the background, crop, or lighting needs work. Sign-in is required because cleanup uses account credits.

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Your feedback helps tune the checklist wording and warning levels.

Requirement checklist

These labels are practical review prompts. The final decision belongs to the relevant government office or upload portal.

Square 2 x 2 in crop

Passed

White or off-white background

Passed

No face retouching or identity changes

Warning

Common questions

For country-specific edge cases, keep the official page open while reviewing the export.

Does AnyPassportPhoto.com replace the official passport office check? +

No. It helps you prepare and review a photo against published requirements. The passport authority, embassy, consulate, or official upload system makes the final decision.

Can I make a passport photo online for free? +

Yes. You can choose a document, run the basic checklist, resize in your browser, and download the resized JPG without signing in or paying. Optional AI cleanup uses paid credits.

What does the online passport photo checker review? +

It checks file type, size, resolution, and crop shape, then prompts you to inspect the background and face position. Compare every result with the linked official rules.

Why are results shown as Passed, Warning, or Needs retake? +

One serious issue can matter more than a high total score. The labels show what looks fine, what needs review, and when a new photo is safer.