Passport photo requirements
United Statespassport photo size & requirements
The official United States passport photo size is 51×51mm (2.01 × 2.01 in).
- Width
- 51 mm
- Height
- 51 mm
- Resolution
- 300 DPI minimum
- ◻Background: Plain white
- ◻Face height: 69–80% of photo height (1–1⅜ inches head height in a 2-inch photo)
- ◻Expression: Neutral, mouth closed
- ◻Glasses: Not permitted (since 2016)
- ◻Recency: Within 6 months
- ℹUS State Dept prohibits AI-enhanced photos (effective January 2026). Photo must be printed on matte or glossy photo-quality paper.
Common questions about United States passport photos
What is the United States passport photo size?
The official United States passport photo size is 51×51mm (2.01 × 2.01 inches). The background must be plain white. US State Dept prohibits AI-enhanced photos (effective January 2026). Photo must be printed on matte or glossy photo-quality paper.
What background colour is required?
United States passport photos require a plain white background. The background must be evenly lit — no shadows, patterns, or gradients. A plain wall or door lit by a nearby window is usually ideal.
Can I make a United States passport photo at home?
Yes. Stand against a plain light-coloured wall, face a window for even lighting, look straight at the camera lens with a neutral expression, and ensure no shadows fall on your face. Upload the result to MePhoto — we crop and resize to the exact 51×51mm specification and generate a print-ready A4 PDF.
Create your United States passport photo now
Compliant 51×51mm photo — instant download, print-ready PDF. From AED 4.99.