Can you wear hearing aids in a passport photo?

Yes. If you normally wear hearing aids or similar assistive devices, you can and should wear them in your US passport photo. They are part of your everyday appearance. This is different from headphones and wireless earbuds, which are not permitted and must be removed before the photo.

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Assistive devices vs. accessories

The rule distinguishes between devices you medically rely on, which are allowed, and audio accessories, which are not. A behind-the-ear or in-ear hearing aid is fine; AirPods are not, even in one ear.

Framing note

The US does not require your ears to be visible, so a hearing aid partly covered by hair is not a problem. Countries that do require visible ears, like China for visa photos, still allow hearing devices.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a doctor's note for hearing aids in a passport photo?

No. Unlike glasses, which need a signed medical statement to be worn, hearing aids require no documentation.

Can I wear earbuds or headphones in the photo?

No. Headphones and wireless devices like earbuds must be removed for the photo.

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