Makeup and Hair for Passport Photos: What is Allowed?

You want to look your best, but looking "too good" might get your passport rejected. Here is the balance.

Makeup Rules

Natural is key. Biometric software maps the shape of your face. Heavy contouring changes the perceived shape of your nose or jawline.

• Allowed: Foundation, light concealer, neutral lipstick, light mascara.
• Avoid: Heavy contouring, glitter, glossy lip gloss (reflection), smoky eyes.

Hair Rules

Your entire face must be visible from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead, and from ear to ear (edges of the face).

• Bangs: If they cover your eyebrows, pin them back. Eyebrows are a critical biometric feature.
• Volume: If you have voluminous curly hair, it can be cropped out, but ensure it doesn't obscure your face.
• Ears: Tucking hair behind ears is highly recommended (mandatory in some countries like France).