The exciting time of vacation abroad is approaching, but before embarking on your journey make sure take a quick look at your passport expiry date. You might want to be practical and get your hair done before holidays on the same day when taking your id photo. Here are a few points to consider when deciding on your new vacation hairstyle that will be in line with the mandatory standards. So what exactly should you do with your hair for passport photo?
Last update:2/28/2025
Passport Photo Hair Rules
Suggestion n°1 : Your head must be visible on the photo
One of the standards for passport photo requires to have a bare head, that is, without a hat, scarf, headband or any other decorative object. In other words, you have to let your hair show.
Suggestion n°2 : Do not wear any accessories in your hair
No visible accessories should be noticeable on your official photo. That includes barrettes, elastic bands and other extras. If your hair is bothering you, tie it in a ponytail behind your head. It will not be visible in the passport photo.
Suggestion n°3 : Your face should be in clear sight
The hair covers the ears and is between the photo and the face 3. full face is visible.
You must be recognizable in the passport photo, without hair covering your face. If you have bangs, try dividing them in half and tucking each strand behind your ear. Alternatively, use discreet hair clips so that the bangs not cover your eyes.
Another equally important point regarding your hair for passport photo – both ears are visible. So if you have long hair, adjust it.
Suggestion n°4 : Flatten your hair for the photo
If you have beautiful frizzy, tousled hair, it is advised to pull your hair back with a rubber band to keep your face exposed. The background of the photo around your face must be seen.
Suggestion n°5 : Use the Smartphone iD app for absolute validity
To avoid any mishaps take your passport photos (unlimited trials) with our app at home and receive them in a few minutes by email or within a few days by post. Our app and team will verify them for you.
Once we have them approved, you have a 100% guarantee that they can be used by the administration to create or renew your driver’s license, passport, residence permit, identity card, visa or any other official document.
Easily create your digital passport photos with your phone 24-7! An app that absolutely conforms with the ICAO.
Passport Photo Hair -Examples:
Best Hairstyles for a Passport Photo
Your hairstyle plays an important role in ensuring your passport photo meets official requirements. It should be neat, simple, and should not obstruct your face.
General guidelines for acceptable hairstyles:
- Keep your face fully visible — avoid styles that cover your eyes, eyebrows, or ears.
- Make sure your hair stays within the photo frame and does not extend beyond the edges.
- If needed, use small accessories like hairpins to keep your hair in place.
- Choose a tidy and natural hairstyle for a professional look.
Women’s Hairstyles for a Passport Photo
These styles keep your hair in place while meeting passport photo requirements:
- Messy low bun
- Wrapped ponytail
- Fluffy ponytail
- Half-up twist knot
- One-side pin
Men’s Hairstyles for a Passport Photo
Regardless of your hair length, it’s important to keep it neat and away from the face:
- Short hair: Keep it well-groomed and styled away from your face.
- Long hair: It should be neatly combed, tied in a bun, or secured with subtle accessories if necessary.
- Facial hair: Beards and stubbles are allowed, provided they do not cause shadows on your face.
Baby’s Hairstyles for a Passport Photo
A baby’s hairstyle should meet the following requirements:
- Make sure the baby’s face is fully visible, with no hair covering the eyes or forehead.
- If the baby has longer hair, gently comb it back or use a small clip to keep it away from the face.
- Avoid hats, headbands, or large accessories, as they are not allowed in passport photos.
- For newborns, lay them on a plain background and smooth their hair naturally before taking the photo.
FAQ
Can my hair be down for a passport photo?
Yes, you can wear your hair down as long as it does not cover your face, especially your eyes, eyebrows, or ears.
Can you have your hair out in passport photos?
Yes, but your hair must not obstruct your facial features. Keep it tucked behind your ears if needed.
Can you have bangs in a passport photo?
Yes, bangs are allowed as long as they do not cover your eyes or eyebrows.
Can you have colored hair in a passport photo?
Yes, dyed or naturally colored hair is acceptable as long as your face remains clearly visible.
Can you have a ponytail in a passport photo?
Yes, a ponytail is allowed, and it can help keep hair away from your face for a clearer photo.
Can you wear your hair up in a passport photo?
Yes, wearing your hair up is permitted as long as it does not extend beyond the photo frame.
Can you wear a wig for a passport photo?
Yes, wigs are allowed as long as they do not cover your face and are worn regularly.
Can you have long hair in a passport photo?
Yes, but ensure your long hair does not cover your face or extend beyond the required photo dimensions.
Can you have your hair in a bun in a passport photo?
Yes, a bun is acceptable as long as it does not interfere with the framing of the photo.
Can you wear a headband in a passport photo?
No, headbands and other decorative accessories are not allowed.
What hair accessories can you wear in a passport photo?
Only small, discreet accessories like hairpins or clips that keep hair away from the face are permitted.
Do my ears have to show in my passport photo?
No, your ears do not have to be visible, but your face must be clearly shown without obstructions.
Do I need to straighten my hair for my flight to match my passport photo?
No, your hairstyle can change, as long as your facial features remain recognizable.
My passport photo shows me with hair, but now I’m bald. Will this be an issue?
No, hair loss does not affect the validity of your passport as long as your facial features are unchanged.
Can you have a fringe in a passport photo?
Yes, but it must not cover your eyes or eyebrows.
