The passport photo rejected is absolutely disappointing, but it does happen occasionally. It might result from various reasons, such as poor photo quality, improper background, or wrong size, etc. Understanding why a passport photo is rejected is crucial if you want to get your passport smoothly and start your journey soon. This blog post will introduce examples of rejected passport photos and how to handle the rejection.
What Happens If Passport Photo Is Rejected
The US authority will send you a passport photo rejection letter informing you of the result and explaining why it is rejected. You have to read it carefully and retake a new photo. Make sure to avoid making the same mistakes and comply with all official passport photo requirements. Submit the new photo again along with other necessary evidence (if required). It must be done within 90 days of receiving the letter, otherwise, the current application will be canceled and you cannot resubmit only a photo.
How Do You Know If Your Passport Photo Is Rejected?
If you receive a notification from the passport office that your US passport photo has been rejected, you will know. This usually happens about 8-11 weeks after submitting the application, so please pay attention to your mailbox and avoid missing the notice. Additionally, you can check the application status on the official website of the U.S. State Department through the steps below.
- Visit the U.S. Passport Application Status tool. Read the Privacy and Computer Fraud and Abuse Acts Notices and Disclaimers. Check the box to agree to it and click on the “Submit” button. Alternatively, you can call the National Passport Information Center at 1-877-487-2778 and ask for help.
- Provide your last name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. Enter the verification code and click on the “Submit” at the bottom.
- View the status of your application. If you see “Denied”, continue reading to find out the reasons for the denial.
Common Reasons for US Passport Photo Rejected
The authority will not accept your passport photo if there is any inconsistency with the official photo rules. A photo rejected for a passport is usually caused by any of the following problems.
- Incorrect Photo Size
The US passport photo must be exactly 2 x 2 inches with an aspect ratio of 1:1. Your head should measure about 1 inch and 1.4 inches from the chin to the top of the hair. If your face is not centered or looks too large/small, your photo will be turned down.
- Improper Background
Some are rejected due to no plain white or off-white backgrounds, fancy or messy backgrounds, or irrelevant object, people, or body parts in the photo.
- Poor Lighting
A qualified photo must be well-lit. However, poor lighting will lead to shadows or glare on the face or background. Red or unnatural eye color due to flash is also not allowed.
- Unsuitable Dressing & Accessories
Uniforms and white clothes are expressly prohibited. Religious head coverings should not cover the face or blend into the white background. Other headgear and accessories that obscure your face or cause reflection are prohibited, such as hats, large facial piercings, glasses, etc.
- Wrong Facial Expressions or Poses
A neutral and relaxed expression is required, so photos with the person smiling too much, frowning, or closing his eyes, are not accepted. Rejected infant passport photo usually shows tilting heads.
- Low Photo Quality
Applicants must not submit a photo taken more than 6 months ago or a blurry, pixelated, damaged, or creased photo.
- Facial Features Invisible
Anything that prevents the officer from recognizing your appearance will lead to refusal, such as too much makeup and hair covering the face.
- Software Alteration
Photo resizing is permitted. However, you must not retouch it, such as adding filters, removing wrinkles or birthmarks, changing the face oval, etc.
- Incorrect Photo Format
The photo must be printed on high-quality photo paper instead of common A4 paper. Photos attached to the application form with glue or tapes are not acceptable in any case.
- Lack of Supporting Documents
If you wear head coverings or glasses in the photo and fail to provide evidence to prove that you have to wear them, you won’t be able to continue applying. Acceptable documents include a signed doctor’s statement or member certificate of a religious organization.
Examples of Rejected Passport Photos
To help you better understand common mistakes, here are some examples of rejected US passport photos.
- Shadows and Lighting
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| Shadows on the background or face | Inaccurate color and overexposure | Underexposure photos or dark photos | “Red eyes” effect |
- Size and Position
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| Too close shots | Far-away shots | Subject not centered | Not showing the full head |
- Resolution, Print Size, and Quality
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| Blurry photo | Grainy texture | Wrong photo size |
- Digital Changes
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| Rough cropping | Alteration to the shape of the head or appearance | Filters, special effects |
- Pose and Expression
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| Do not look at the camera | Rotate or tilt the head | Laugh | Close eyes |
- Attire, Hats, and Glasses
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| Face covered | Wear headgear | Wear glasses | Face covered & white clothes |
- Background
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| Textured background | Non-white or off-white background | Irrelevant items without permission |
- Children
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| Exaggerated facial expression | Face blocked | Pacifiers or toys in the photo | Other persons or body parts captured |
What to Do Next If My Passport Photo Is Rejected
Having a photo rejected for a passport doesn’t mean you will not get the passport. Here is an instruction on what to do next if your passport photo is rejected by the government.
Learn US Passport Photo Requirements
The US passport photo must be 2×2 inches with a plain white background and present the applicant’s true appearance. A rejected photo means it does not comply with any of the official rules, so it is necessary to study the specific passport photo requirements on the State Department portal before retaking a photo.
Determine the Reason for Passport Photo Rejection
Review the official notification and check why your photo is rejected. Find out the specific mistakes according to what we have introduced above. Try not to make the same mistake again.
Retake Passport Photos
You can take a new photo at a photo studio, photo booth, or at home. If you decide to take it yourself, please turn to a professional passport photo maker, for example, AiPassportPhotos which promises to generate a digital US passport photo that is bound to be accepted by the passport office.
Double Check Passport Photos
Print out the photos downloaded from AiPassportPhotos. Double-check whether the photo is in good condition and satisfies the official photo requirements.
Submit the New Passport Photos within 90 Days
Resubmit the photo within 90 days as the passport photo rejection letter tells you. Do not miss the deadline to submit it.
Do I Need to Pay Again to Resubmit My Passport Photo?
No, if you re-submit the photo within 90 days of rejection as the existing application remains valid. However, if you miss the deadline, you have to start over with a passport application and pay again. Worse still, you will not receive a refund from the previous case. To avoid spending extra money, it is suggested to make sure your passport photo is 100% qualified before submission.
How Many Times Can I Resubmit My Passport Photo?
Generally speaking, you might be able to resubmit a passport photo during the 90-day time limit. However, you are not suggested to do so as it will extend the processing time and delay your journey. Please check the notice of rejection or check with the passport office for accurate and updated information.
How to Avoid Passport Photo Rejection in the Future
To avoid passport photo rejection in the future, your passport photo must meet the official requirements. Here are some useful tips for taking photos.
- Preparation: Get acquainted with the official passport photo specifications and the common mistakes.
- Resolution and Quality: Use a high-resolution camera to ensure clarity. If you use mobile phones, the rear camera usually takes clearer pictures.
- Attire and Accessories: Wear decent clothes and try not to wear any decorative accessories.
- Environment: Capture photos in a well-lit place. Either a photo studio or a room with sufficient natural light at home is suitable.
- Photographer: Ask someone else to help or hold the camera with a tripod if you take photos yourself. Do not submit selfies.
- Photo editing: Use a certified online passport photo editor to adjust size and check photo compliance.
FAQ
How strict are US passport photo requirements?
They are stricter than other photo rules for visas, driver’s licenses, or other identity documents.
Is it OK to smile in a US passport photo?
Yes, but only gentle smiles. A big smile is not allowed in the US passport photo. Do not close your eyes or open your mouth in the photo.
What to do if my passport photo keeps getting rejected?
You are supposed to find a certified photo store. Some promise to refund your money if the photo is rejected. You are also suggested to learn carefully about the official photo rules.
Do you get a refund if your passport is denied?
A4: No. The passport fee is not refundable no matter when the application is denied, canceled, or approved.
Summary
In summary, a passport photo may be denied for different reasons. It is necessary to study the passport photo requirements and common mistakes no matter when you are going to apply for a passport or when you have been rejected. If you are facing the same issues, make sure to resubmit a qualified promptly. We hope this passage can help you fix the problems of rejected photos and receive the travel document as soon as possible.