Compliant Passport Photo

US baby & infant passport photo requirements

A US baby or infant passport photo must be 2 x 2 inches with a plain white or off-white background, the same size as an adult's. For children under 1, the eyes do not have to be fully open. No other people, hands, toys, pacifiers, or props may appear, and there must be no shadows on the face or background.

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How to photograph an infant

Lay the baby on their back on a plain white sheet, or cover a car seat with a white sheet, and photograph straight down from above with no shadows. Make sure nothing but the baby is in frame — no hands supporting the head, no toys.

The face must be clear and the head facing forward as much as possible. For newborns and infants, a neutral expression is not required and the eyes may be closed.

Frequently asked questions

Do a baby's eyes need to be open in a passport photo?

For children under 1 year old, the eyes do not have to be open. For older children, both eyes should be open and looking at the camera.

Can I hold my baby in the passport photo?

No. No other person, and no hands, may be visible. Lay the baby on a plain white sheet and photograph from above.

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