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.
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.
Passport photo checker
Check the basics, resize to the selected document size, and sign in only if you want AI background and crop cleanup.
Free check results
Status labels are practical guidance, not a government approval guarantee.
Optional background, crop, and lighting cleanup. Sign-in is required because AI fixes use account credits.
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
PassedWhite or off-white background
PassedNo face retouching or identity changes
WarningCommon 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 upload system makes the final decision.
Why does the checklist use Passed, Warning, and Needs retake? +
Passport photo rules are not a single number. A photo can have the right size and still fail because of glare, background edits, head tilt, or file compression. Checklist language makes the next action clearer.
Can I use an AI-edited passport photo? +
Many passport authorities restrict altered photos, and some explicitly mention AI tools or software edits. Use AI-assisted output cautiously, avoid changing the face, and retake the photo when the checklist flags identity or background risks.
Which countries are included at launch? +
The first launch covers the United States, United Kingdom, India, Canada, Australia, China, Japan, Germany, France, and Spain.