Can you wear glasses in a US visa or passport photo?
Short answer: no, with a very narrow medical exception.
The rule
The State Department says glasses are generally not allowed in visa and passport photos. Glare, reflections and shadows from frames can hide your eyes. If you normally wear glasses, take them off for the photo.
The medical exception
In rare cases where glasses cannot be removed for medical reasons, you may need a signed statement from your doctor. If a photo with glasses is accepted at all, the frames must not cover your eyes and there must be no glare, shadows or refraction obscuring them. Confirm the current rules with the agency or consulate before you rely on this.
What our tool does
An AI model on your device looks for glasses. If it finds them, you see a pop-up explaining the rule. If you have a medical exception, you can choose to continue anyway, and we remind you to keep your signed statement.
Tips for taking the photo without glasses
- Face a window so your eyes are well lit. Squinting makes eyes look half closed.
- Look at the lens, relax your face, and take several photos.
- Do not use sunglasses or tinted lenses.
Ready to try? Use the photo maker. Sources: U.S. Department of State: visa photos and passport photos. Always confirm on the official site before you submit.