Can You Smile in a Passport Photo?
No, smiling is not allowed in US passport photos. The State Department requires a neutral facial expression with your mouth closed. Here's everything you need to know about expression requirements.
Quick Answer: No Smiling Allowed
US passport photos require a neutral expression. Smiling -- even a slight smile -- can cause your application to be rejected. Keep your mouth closed and your face relaxed.
Why Can’t You Smile in Passport Photos?
The no-smiling rule exists because of facial recognition technology. Modern border security systems scan your face and compare it to your passport photo. When you smile, the shape of your face changes — eyes narrow, cheeks rise, and mouth proportions shift — making it harder for automated systems to match you.
The ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) sets global standards for travel documents. Their guidelines recommend neutral expressions specifically because facial recognition accuracy drops significantly with smiling photos.
What Happens If You Submit a Smiling Photo?
Consequences of Smiling
- Photo rejected — Your application will be returned with a request for a new photo
- Processing delays — You’ll need to take and submit a new photo, adding days or weeks
- Additional cost — If you paid for photos at a retailer, you’ll need to pay again
How to Get the Correct Expression
Relax your face
Take a few deep breaths before the photo. Tension shows in photos, especially around the jaw and forehead.
Think neutral thoughts
Don't think of anything funny or you'll naturally start to smile. Focus on keeping your face at rest.
Close your mouth naturally
Keep your lips together but not pressed. Your mouth should look relaxed, not tense.
Eyes open and forward
Look directly at the camera with both eyes open. Avoid squinting or raising eyebrows.
Accepted vs. Rejected Expressions
Will Be Rejected
- ✕ Smiling with teeth showing
- ✕ Slight smile or smirk
- ✕ Mouth open (even slightly)
- ✕ Frowning or angry expression
- ✕ Raised eyebrows
- ✕ Squinting eyes
Will Be Accepted
- ✓ Neutral, relaxed expression
- ✓ Mouth closed naturally
- ✓ Both eyes open and visible
- ✓ Looking directly at camera
- ✓ Face relaxed (not tense)
- ✓ Natural eyebrow position
Special Cases: Babies & Children
The expression rules are slightly relaxed for young children:
- Infants under 6 months: Eyes don’t need to be fully open. A natural, relaxed mouth is acceptable.
- Children under 2: Neutral expression preferred, but minor variations may be accepted.
- All ages: Mouth should be closed. No pacifiers, toys, or objects.
Need tips for baby photos? See our baby passport photo guide.
Related Guides
- Glasses Rules — Why glasses are banned
- Background Requirements — White background rules
- Baby Photos — Tips for infant photos
- Photo Rejected? — Fix common issues
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you smile in a US passport photo?
No, smiling is not allowed in US passport photos. The State Department requires a neutral facial expression with your mouth closed. This rule applies to all applicants including children.
Why are you not allowed to smile in passport photos?
Facial recognition systems work best with neutral expressions. A smile changes the proportions of your face, making it harder for automated border systems to match you to your photo.
What happens if I smile in my passport photo?
Your passport application may be rejected if you're visibly smiling. Even a slight smile showing teeth will likely be flagged. You'll need to resubmit a new photo with a neutral expression.
Can babies smile in passport photos?
Babies and young children should have a neutral expression too, but the rules are more relaxed. A natural, relaxed mouth is acceptable for infants. The key requirement is that the baby's mouth is closed.
What is the correct expression for a passport photo?
The correct expression is neutral with your mouth closed. Your eyes should be open and looking directly at the camera. Keep your face relaxed -- neither frowning nor smiling.
Are there any countries where smiling is allowed?
Most countries require a neutral expression for passport photos. Australia, UK, Canada, and Schengen countries all follow the same no-smiling rule as the US.
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