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
Smiling causes your eyes to squint, changing the eye-to-face ratio that recognition systems measure.
Cheeks Rise
Raised cheeks alter the distance between your cheekbones and other facial landmarks.
Mouth Changes
An open mouth or visible teeth create shadows and proportions that don't match your resting face.
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?
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 to your timeline
Additional cost: If you paid for photos at a retailer, you'll need to pay again for new photos
How to Get the Correct Expression
A neutral expression doesn't mean looking angry or uncomfortable. Here's how to nail the right look:
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.
Smiling Rules by Country
The no-smiling rule is nearly universal. Here's what different countries require:
| Country | Smiling Allowed? | Expression Required |
|---|---|---|
| 🇺🇸 United States | No | Neutral, mouth closed |
| 🇬🇧 United Kingdom | No | Neutral, mouth closed |
| 🇨🇦 Canada | No | Neutral, mouth closed |
| 🇦🇺 Australia | No | Neutral, mouth closed |
| 🇪🇺 Schengen/EU | No | Neutral, mouth closed |
| 🇮🇳 India | No | Neutral, mouth closed |
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