When applying for a new passport or renewing an expired passport, one of the key requirements is to include passport photos. However, there is often confusion around whether you need to physically attach the photos to the passport application or not. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk through when and how to include passport photos with a passport application.
Do You Need to Attach Photos to Passport Applications?
In short – yes, you do need to include passport photos when submitting a passport application, both for new passports and renewals. However, the photos do not necessarily need to be physically attached or glued to the application form. The requirements differ slightly depending on how you are applying.
Applying by Mail
For mail-in passport applications, you must include two identical passport photos. These should be recent color photos that meet all the passport photo requirements. The easiest option is to attach one photo to the application form in the designated spot. Then, include the second loose photo along with the rest of your application materials.
Applying at an Acceptance Facility
If applying in person at an authorized passport acceptance facility, such as a post office, you must bring two passport photos with you. The acceptance agent will attach one photo to your application form and submit the second loose photo with the rest of your documents.
Applying Online
For online passport applications, you also need to submit two identical passport photos. However, in this case you do not physically attach the photos at all. Instead, you will upload digital copies of the photos when completing the online application.
Passport Photo Requirements
In order for your passport photos to be accepted, they must meet the following requirements:
- In color
- Printed on high quality photo paper
- 2 x 2 inches in size
- Taken within the last 6 months
- Show your full face pointed directly at the camera
- Have a plain white background
- Be high resolution and in focus
Your head should also be sized appropriately within the frame. The photos must be originals, not digital copies or printed on normal paper. When taking the photos yourself, be sure to follow all the requirements carefully to avoid any processing delays.
Why You Should Not Attach Photos Yourself
Some passport applicants wonder why they can’t just attach or glue their own photos onto the application form before submitting it. There are a few reasons for this:
- The acceptance agent or office needs to confirm that your photos meet the requirements. Attaching them makes this difficult.
- Special glue or mounting corners are used to properly adhere the photos.
- Self-attached photos are more likely to tear or fall off the application.
- The photos must be placed precisely within the designated boxes.
To avoid any issues, it’s best to always allow the acceptance agent or office to attach the necessary photo to your application form rather than doing it yourself.
What Type of Glue Is Used to Attach Photos?
Since passport photos cannot be taped or stapled to the application forms, a special adhesive must be used. There are a few common options:
- Photographic mounting corners – These small triangular sticky tabs can neatly adhere photos without covering important details.
- Rubber cement – This comes as a fast-drying glue that can be brushed on the back of photos.
- Spray adhesive – Some facilities use aerosol spray glue to quickly attach passport photos.
In some cases, photos may also be attached using a plastic sleeve or pocket built into the application form. The key is that they affix the photos securely enough for processing without damaging them.
When to Include Additional Photos
While two identical passport photos are required for all applications, there are some situations where you may need to include additional photos:
- If any photos get damaged or destroyed, submit extra replacements.
- Name change applications may require additional photos to show your previous appearance.
- Extra photos can help corroborate identity for complex cases.
- Applicants who wear head coverings for religious reasons should include photos with and without the covering.
Providing extra photos is recommended if you have any concerns about your application being accepted or processed quickly. Keep copies of all passport photos you have taken for this purpose.
Tips for Attaching Your Own Photos
While it’s recommended to let passport acceptance agents attach your photos, you can adhere them yourself in certain situations:
- Use official passport photo mounting corners positioned precisely within the boxes.
- Lightly brush a thin, even coat of rubber cement on the back – avoid using excessive glue.
- Press each photo down firmly for 30 seconds to ensure it sets smoothly and securely.
- Check that no important details are obscured by the glue or corners.
- Use a ruler or template to align your photos accurately on the form.
Attaching your own photos should really only be done if absolutely necessary. Proceed with caution as any errors could lead to rejection and processing delays.
What Happens If You Forget to Include Photos?
Forgetting to include the required passport photos is one of the biggest mistakes applicants make. Unfortunately, this will inevitably delay your application. Here’s what will happen:
- The application will be considered incomplete and cannot proceed.
- You will be contacted to submit photos before processing can begin.
- Your application will go on hold until the missing photos are provided.
- Significant delays of 4-6 weeks or longer are likely.
- Expedited or rush processing becomes unavailable.
To avoid this headache, double check that you have your two identical passport photos before submitting an application. Set reminders and keep copies readily available as backups.
Options for Replacing Detached or Damaged Photos
If your passport photos become detached or too damaged to use during the application process, you have a few options:
- Contact the passport agency quickly to send replacements.
- Submit extra photos along with your application as a backup.
- Provide new photos at your in-person appointment if applying at an acceptance facility.
- Upload replacement photos through the online application system.
- Bring replacements to a passport agency office for assistance.
Having extra passport photos handy is wise to account for any accidents or mistakes. You can avoid delays by acting quickly to replace any detached or damaged photos.
How Long Are Passport Photos Valid For?
Passport photos are only valid for a limited time. Generally, photos expire and must be retaken if they are more than:
- 6 months old for adult passport renewals
- 12 months old for child passport renewals
- 6 months old for new passport applications
Submitting expired photos with your application will lead to processing delays and problems. Track the photo dates closely and plan to retake them within the validity window.
Can I Use Photocopied or Printed Photos?
No, you cannot use photocopied, reprinted, or scanned versions of your passport photos. The photos must be originals developed from your digital camera or smartphone. Copying will result in rejection:
- Scans and reprints have degraded and distorted image quality.
- Digital copies introduce artifacts, noise, and unnatural textures.
- Printing photos on normal paper is prohibited.
- All photos must be professionally developed.
- Photocopies lack the vivid color and resolution of originals.
There are no exceptions to the rules prohibiting photocopied or reprinted passport photos. Always submit newly taken shots that meet the requirements.
Troubleshooting Photo Glare or Obstructions
Passport photos with obstructions, shadows, or distracting glare will also lead to delays or rejection. Here are some troubleshooting tips:
- Use a matte finish when printing photos to minimize glare.
- Make sure your face is fully visible, not covered by hair or shadows.
- Avoid hats, headphones, and jewelry blocking any features.
- Lighting should be bright and evenly distributed.
- Retake any shots with dim lighting, reflections, or red-eye issues.
Review your photos closely before submitting to identify and fix any quality issues, obstructions, or distractions. Taking photos outdoors on an overcast day can help.
Recommended Photo Printers and Paper
To ensure your passport photos meet the strict quality standards, use these recommended printers and photo paper types:
Printers
- Canon SELPHY CP Series
- Epson PictureMate PM-400
- HP Sprocket
- Kodak Mini Shot
- Fujifilm Instax Share SP-3
Photo Paper
- Kodak Ultra Premium Photo Paper
- Epson Premium Glossy
- Canon Photo Paper Pro Platinum
- HP Advanced Glossy
- Fujifilm Instax Glossy
Investing in a good photo printer and high quality paper ensures ideal resolution, color, and finish for passport approval.
Conclusion
Submitting proper passport photos is a critical part of the application process. While rules prohibit attaching your own photos, you must provide two compliant images through the accepted channels. Use premium paper and print your own, or have them taken professionally. With up-to-date, high quality photos that meet all the guidelines, you can avoid mistakes, delays, and rejection issues.
