EN

AnswerUnited States passportchecked November 10, 2026

Not facing the camera

The State Department asks you to face the camera directly with your full face in view. A head turned a few degrees, or eyes looking at the screen instead of the lens, is enough for a rejection.

Why it happens

  • Looking at the phone screen instead of the lens.
  • The head turned slightly to one side.
  • The camera placed off to one side of the face.

How to fix it

  1. Look into the lens

    Find the camera lens and look straight into it, not at your own image.

  2. Centre the camera

    The lens should be straight in front of your nose.

  3. Check the turn

    The checker compares the position of your nose between your cheeks and tells you if your head is turned.

Check your photo now, free

2 in 2 in 25–35 mm

Checks

  1. Add a photo to see the crop and the checks.

Bought your photo here and it was still rejected? You get a free redo or a refund. See the guarantee

Questions

Should my ears be visible?

The US rule asks for your full face in view. Hair over the ears is not itself a reason for rejection, but your face and eyes must not be covered.