7 Common Visa Photo Mistakes to Avoid in 2025

Visa applications are often rejected due to poor photos. It's a frustrating and expensive delay. Here are the most common mistakes to avoid to ensure your application sails through.

1. Smiling

It's natural to want to look friendly, but a smile alters your facial biometrics. Facial recognition software relies on the distance between key features, and smiling changes these ratios. Keep a neutral expression.

2. Old Photos

Most governments require a photo taken within the last 6 months. Using an old photo, even if you look the same, is a guaranteed way to get rejected. If the photo looks like your current passport photo (which is 5 years old), they will know.

3. Glasses and Glare

Many countries, including the US, no longer allow glasses in visa photos. Even if they are allowed, any reflection or glare on the lenses will cause a rejection. It is always safer to take them off.

4. Bad Cropping and Sizing

The head size (from chin to crown) must be precise. For a US photo, the head must be between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches. Don't try to crop it yourself with a mouse—use a specialized tool like SnapPass to ensure exact dimensions.

5. Shadows

Shadows behind the head, on one side of the face, or in the eye sockets are common reasons for rejection. This usually happens when using a flash or standing too close to the wall.

6. Hair Covering Face

Your full face must be visible. Bangs should not cover eyebrows. Hair should be tucked behind ears if possible to show the edges of your face.

7. Low Quality / Blurry

Selfies taken with the front camera often have lower resolution. Use the back camera of your phone or have a friend take the photo for the sharpest result.