United States: no glasses
Since November 2016, the US Department of State does not allow eyeglasses in passport photos. The only exception is a documented medical reason, which requires a signed statement from your doctor — and even then it’s discouraged.
So for a US passport or visa photo, take your glasses off. Reflections and frames obscuring the eyes were the reason for the ban, and a photo with glasses on will be rejected.
Other countries: only if your eyes are fully visible
- No glare or reflection on the lenses.
- Frames must not cover any part of your eyes.
- No tinted, transition, or sunglasses lenses.
- Eyes must be clearly visible and open.
- When in doubt, remove them — bare eyes are accepted everywhere.
How we handle it
Our checker flags eyewear and lens glare automatically, so you find out before you submit. Because removing your glasses is the one choice that passes in every country, that’s what we recommend — and checking your photo is free.
Frequently asked
Can you wear glasses in a US passport photo?
No. Eyeglasses have been banned in US passport photos since November 2016. The only exception is a medical one that requires a signed doctor’s statement, so the safe choice is to remove them.
Can you wear glasses in a UK passport photo?
Only if your eyes are clearly visible with no glare and the frames don’t cover them — and tinted lenses aren’t allowed. The UK passport office recommends removing glasses, which is the safest option.
What about reading glasses or transition lenses?
Remove them. Transition and tinted lenses are not allowed because they obscure the eyes, and reading glasses cause glare. Take any glasses off for the photo.
Will my photo be rejected for glasses glare?
Yes — reflections on the lenses are a common rejection reason. Our automatic check flags eyewear and glare so you can retake without glasses before submitting.