If you are myopic and about to have a passport photo, you might be wondering can you wear glasses in a passport picture? This is indeed a problem, most of us are used to our faces with optical metal glasses, so maybe you want to keep them on when having a photo shot, while are glasses allowed in passport photos? There actually are regulations for it, some people can while some people can not wear them for passport photo, wanna know what type you are? and why can’t you wear glasses in a passport photo? This article will guide you to have a smooth passport photograph.
Are Glasses Allowed in Passport Photos?
According to the document issued by the travel state, technically glasses are not allowed in passport photos. However, there might be some exceptions or specific conditions outlined therein. Here’s what the eyeglasses passport policy talks about:
Eyeglasses Passport Policy
The document outlines the No Eyeglasses Policy that took effect on November 1, 2016, concerning passport and visa photographs. Under this policy, the Consular Affairs (CA) stopped accepting photos of applicants wearing eyeglasses, except in specific medically-documented situations. The rationale behind this decision was to improve the accuracy of facial recognition software and minimize the chances of misidentification.
However, in rare cases where there’s a medical necessity for glasses, such as recent ocular surgery requiring eye protection during urgent travel, applicants must provide a medical statement signed by a health professional. If accepted for medical reasons, the glasses must adhere to certain guidelines, including not covering the eyes, avoiding glare that obscures the eyes, and preventing shadows or refraction that obstructs visibility. Although there was a grace period until November 30, 2016, allowing the submission of photos with glasses, the policy mandated that from December 1, 2016, applicants had to provide photos without eyeglasses for all new visa and passport applications, unless accompanied by a medical statement.
Why Can’t You Wear Glasses in a Passport Photo?
As glasses are necessities for most of us, and eyeglasses are some people’s symbols, while why can’t you wear glasses in a passport photo?
It’s because eyeglasses would cause problems in identifying your Identity, such as lens glare making it hard to confirm eye color or glasses significantly altering someone’s appearance and complicating identity verification were common. Prior to 2016, eyeglasses often led to issues with passport applications, resulting in denials or delays.
From 2016 onwards, wearing glasses in passport photos has been banned by the U.S. Department of State. This No Eyeglass Policy was implemented due to considerations of convenience and security.
The decision to prohibit glasses in passport photos offers a straightforward remedy, expediting the approval process and ensuring quicker delivery of passports to applicants. While there are exceptions, some people can have priority, why can you wear glasses in a passport photo? Keep reading on.
Why Can You Wear Glasses for Passport Photo?
In adherence to the No Eyeglasses Policy effective from November 1, 2016, passport and visa photographs are no longer accepted if the applicant is wearing eyeglasses. However, in exceptional and rare cases, such as recent ocular surgery necessitating eye protection during urgent travel, applicants may be allowed to wear glasses. Yet, in these instances, a crucial requirement is a medical statement signed by a health professional, validating the necessity of glasses for the applicant’s condition.
Additionally, if glasses are permitted on medical grounds, strict guidelines must be followed: the frames should not cover the eyes, there must be no glare obscuring the eyes, and no shadows or refraction should obstruct the visibility of the eyes. Therefore, as per the updated policy effective December 1, 2016, individuals are expected to submit passport and visa photographs without eyeglasses unless accompanied by a verified medical statement explaining the necessity due to recent ocular surgery or similar urgent medical circumstances.
Can You Wear Coloured Contacts in Passport Photos?
No, only Clear contact lenses are acceptable. Other types of contact lenses, including tinted and novelty contact lenses, that do not obscure the eye, and do not make the iris appear larger or smaller, are acceptable.
Tips on What To Wear in a Passport Photo
Now we have made it clear that if you are allowed to wear glasses in a passport photo, there are some other things you might not know, knowing these then you can have a successful passport photo shoot. Let’s take a look at some other picture-taking considerations, so you can ensure a delay-free passport application process
Choose a Pair of Nice Optical Eye Glasses
If you have to wear eyeglasses to take passport photos, it’s recommended you have a pair of beautiful eyeglasses, that suits you well. Optics Town Optical Frame Eyeglasses, with various of materials to choose, there must be one for you!
Wearing Correct Clothes
Opt for your regular, everyday clothing for your passport photo. Avoid costumes or uniforms, as they are not permitted.
Generally, hats or head coverings are not allowed unless they’re worn for religious purposes. In such cases, you’ll need a signed statement confirming their religious significance and public usage.
Makeup and Hair
Technically makeup is forbidden, if you want make the photo shotting smooth, it’s better you don’t have makeup. Or, you can have a light one, the Department of State permits makeup in passport photos as long as it remains moderate. It should not excessively alter your facial features or skin tone, maintaining a natural appearance that doesn’t obscure your identity.
Have a Smile
Ultimately, have a big smile to present yourself as you would on any typical day for your passport photo, keep your passport picture as simple as possible. It will bring good luck into your everyday.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the current passport photo regulations, effective since November 1, 2016, generally prohibit wearing glasses unless medically necessary, requiring a signed statement from a healthcare professional. Colored contacts are not allowed, only clear lenses. It’s recommended to wear everyday clothing, minimal makeup, and maintain a natural appearance for a smooth application process, aiming for easy identification without complications during travel.
