AnswerUnited States passportchecked November 10, 2026
Glasses in a passport photo
For a US passport, take off eyeglasses, sunglasses and tinted glasses, and do not rest them on your head. If you cannot remove them for medical reasons, include a signed note from your doctor with your application.
Why it happens
- Any glasses in the photo, even clear lenses without glare.
- Glasses pushed up on the head.
- Contact lenses are fine, but coloured or patterned lenses that change your eyes are a problem.
How to fix it
Take them off
Remove glasses before the photo. Look straight at the camera.
If you need them for medical reasons
Get a signed note from your doctor and send it with your application.
Check other documents
Rules differ. Our glasses guide lists what each country allows.
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Checks
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Questions
Can I wear glasses in a US visa photo?
No. Glasses are not allowed in US visa photos either, except for medical reasons.