U.S. baby passport photo requirements
Start with a recent, unedited photo. Check the printed size, the full face and the background—and apply the infant exceptions carefully.
A practical preparation checklist
| Check | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Photo size | 2×2 inches / 51×51 mm when printed. |
| Head size | 1–1⅜ inches from chin to top of head. |
| Recency | Taken within the past six months. |
| Background | Plain white or off-white; no distracting objects or shadows. |
| Face | Fully visible, facing the camera; no pacifier or other obstruction. |
| Matte or glossy photo-quality paper; sharp and clear. |
Infant exceptions deserve their own check
A newborn is not expected to behave like an adult in a photo booth. The State Department's adjudication guidance permits partly or completely closed infant eyes, especially for newborns, and accepts infant head tilt. Do not apply a blanket “eyes closed means failure” rule to an infant. This is not an exception for every child.
Keep the original
Move the light, smooth the sheet or take another shot when needed. Do not rely on generated facial detail, opened eyes, removed hands or a replaced background. Passport exports apply cropping and print layout only; they do not repair the photograph.
Prepare the right submission
This version supports printed U.S. passport photographs. Children under 16 apply in person. Your photo download is not a passport application, and a preparation check cannot grant official approval.