Can You Smile in a Passport Photo? 

One of the most common questions people ask when preparing for their passport photo is: "Can I smile?" It's a natural instinct to smile for a camera, but passport photos have specific requirements that differ from regular portraits. Understanding these rules can save you time, money, and the frustration of having your application rejected.

The Short Answer: Keep It Neutral

No, you should not smile in a passport photo. According to international passport photo standards followed by most countries in 2025, including the United States, your expression must be neutral with your mouth closed. While a slight, natural expression is acceptable, a broad smile or any exaggerated facial expression is not permitted.

Why No Smiling?

The restriction on smiling isn't arbitrary—it serves several important purposes:

1. Facial Recognition Technology

Modern border control systems use advanced biometric facial recognition software to verify travelers' identities. These systems analyze the geometric patterns of your face, measuring the distance between your eyes, nose, mouth, and other facial features. When you smile, these measurements change significantly, which can interfere with accurate identification.

2. Consistency Across Documentation

A neutral expression ensures your passport photo can be reliably compared to other official documents and security footage. This consistency is crucial for international security protocols.

3. Aging and Long-Term Use

Passports are valid for 10 years for adults and 5 years for children. A neutral expression ages more consistently than a smile, making it easier to verify your identity throughout your passport's validity period.

What Expression Should You Have?

Instead of smiling, aim for a natural, relaxed expression with these characteristics:

• Mouth closed with lips together (not pursed or tense)

• Eyes open and looking directly at the camera

• Neutral or pleasant demeanor without showing teeth

• Relaxed facial muscles without frowning or scowling

• Natural posture with your head facing straight ahead

Think of it as your everyday, resting face—calm and approachable, but not animated.

Country-Specific Guidelines for 2025

United States

The U.S. Department of State's passport photo requirements clearly state that you must have a neutral facial expression or a natural smile with your mouth closed. Showing teeth is not allowed. The photo must be taken within the last 6 months and accurately represent your current appearance.

United Kingdom

UK passport photos require a neutral expression with your mouth closed. The guidelines specifically state "no smiling" to ensure facial recognition accuracy.

Canada

Canadian passport regulations mandate a neutral expression with a closed mouth. Smiling is not permitted, as it can alter facial features significantly.

European Union

Most EU member states follow the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards, which require a neutral expression. Individual countries may have slight variations, but the no-smiling rule is universal.

Australia

Australian passport photos must show a neutral expression with your mouth closed. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade emphasizes that natural expressions without smiling are required.

Common Passport Photo Mistakes to Avoid

Beyond smiling, here are other mistakes that can lead to rejection:

1. Wearing glasses (most countries no longer allow them unless for medical reasons)

2. Poor lighting that creates shadows on your face

3. Wrong background color (should be plain white or off-white)

4. Incorrect head position (must face forward, not tilted)

5. Inappropriate clothing (avoid uniforms or clothing that resembles a uniform)

6. Visible headphones or hair accessories covering your face

7. Red-eye or glare from flash photography

8. Out-of-focus or pixelated images

Tips for Taking the Perfect Passport Photo

Getting your passport photo right the first time saves both time and money. Here are some professional tips:

Prepare Your Appearance

• Wear everyday clothing in colors that contrast with the white background

• Style your hair away from your face so all features are visible

• Remove glasses unless you have a medical certificate

• Minimal jewelry is acceptable, but avoid anything that covers your face

Perfect Your Expression

• Practice your neutral expression in a mirror beforehand

• Relax your jaw and facial muscles

• Think calm thoughts to avoid tension showing on your face

• Take several photos and choose the most natural-looking one

Get the Technical Details Right

• Ensure the background is plain white or off-white with no shadows

• Position yourself at the correct distance from the camera

• Make sure your head takes up 50-70% of the frame

• Check that lighting is even across your face

• Verify the image resolution meets requirements (usually at least 600 DPI)

What Happens If You Submit a Photo with a Smile?

If you submit a passport photo where you're smiling, several outcomes are possible:

• Application rejection: Your application may be rejected immediately, delaying your passport processing

• Request for new photo: You may receive a request to submit a new photo, adding weeks to your wait time

• Processing delays: Even if initially accepted, your photo could be flagged during review, causing significant delays

• Additional costs: You'll need to pay for new photos and potentially expedited processing fees

Using Professional Passport Photo Services

To ensure your passport photo meets all requirements, consider using a professional service. Tools like Passport Photos 4 can help you create compliant passport photos from the comfort of your home. These services typically include:

• Automated compliance checking to ensure your photo meets official standards

• Background removal and replacement with the correct color

• Size and crop adjustments to meet specific country requirements

• Expression guidance to help you achieve the right neutral look

• Instant digital delivery for online applications

You can learn more about professional passport photo services that ensure compliance with 2025 regulations.

Special Cases and Exceptions

Infants and Young Children

Taking passport photos of babies and young children can be challenging. While the neutral expression rule still applies, authorities understand that getting a baby to cooperate is difficult. The key requirements are:

• Eyes must be open and visible

• No pacifiers or toys in the mouth

• The child should be alone in the photo (no hands holding them should be visible)

• A neutral expression is preferred, but slight smiles may be acceptable for very young children

Medical Conditions

If you have a medical condition that prevents you from maintaining a neutral expression, you may be able to apply for an exception. This typically requires:

• A letter from your physician explaining the condition

• Documentation supporting the medical necessity

• Submission of the exception request with your application

Contact the passport-issuing authority before submitting your application if you believe you need an accommodation.

Digital vs. Physical Passport Photos

In 2025, many countries accept digital passport photo submissions for online applications, while others still require physical prints. Regardless of format, the rules remain the same:

Digital Submissions

• Must meet file size requirements (typically 200-300 KB)

• Correct resolution (at least 600 DPI)

• Acceptable file format (usually JPEG)

• No editing beyond basic corrections

Physical Prints

• Standard size (2 x 2 inches in the US, 35 x 45 mm in most other countries)

• Printed on quality photo paper

• Matte or glossy finish as specified

• No creases or damage

Additional Resources

For more information about passport photo requirements and services, explore these helpful resources:

• Photo to Sketch Converter - Additional photo editing tools

• About Us - Learn about passport photo services

• Contact Us - Get help with your passport photo questions

• Privacy Policy - Understand how your photos are handled

• Terms and Conditions - Service terms and guidelines

Conclusion

While it might feel unnatural to take a photo without smiling, adhering to passport photo guidelines is essential for a smooth application process. The neutral expression requirement exists to support modern security technology and ensure reliable identity verification for years to come.

Before taking your passport photo, review the specific requirements for your country, practice your neutral expression, and consider using professional tools to ensure compliance. Taking these steps will help you avoid rejection, delays, and additional expenses.

Remember: a few minutes of preparation now can save you weeks of waiting and unnecessary frustration. Your neutral-expression passport photo might not be your most flattering picture, but it will get you where you need to go—and that's what matters most.