RulesUpdated 2 min read

Can you wear glasses in a passport photo?

Short answer: take them off. Here's exactly what each country says, and what to do if you can't remove them.

Quick answer

US passport & visa
No glasses
Australia
No glasses
UK
Avoid unless you need them
Medical exception
Possible, with conditions
On this page
  1. By country
  2. United States
  3. United Kingdom
  4. Australia
  5. Why glasses cause rejections
  6. The simple rule

By country

DocumentGlassesNotes
US passportNot allowedDoctor's signed note needed if you can't remove them for medical reasons
US visa / DV lotteryNot allowedApplies to all US visa photos
Australia passportNot allowedMedical exceptions apply
UK passportAvoid unless you need themNo sunglasses or tinted lenses; frames and glare must not cover your eyes
Schengen visaUsually allowed if clear, no glareMany consulates prefer them off

United States

The State Department asks you to take off any glasses, sunglasses or tinted glasses. If you can't remove them for medical reasons, you need a signed note from your doctor with your application.

United Kingdom

GOV.UK says to avoid glasses unless you need them. If you wear them, they can't be sunglasses or tinted, and the frames, glare or reflections must not cover your eyes.

Australia

The Australian Passport Office's examples of unacceptable photos include glasses on, and glasses should not be worn unless there's a medical reason.

Why glasses cause rejections

Facial recognition and the officer checking your photo both need a clear view of your eyes. Thick frames, reflections on lenses and tinted lenses all hide part of the eye area, which is one of the most common reasons photos get rejected.

The simple rule

Take them off, everywhere. Our passport photo maker reminds you before the photo and asks you to confirm before you download.

Questions

Can I wear glasses in my US passport photo?

No. Glasses are not allowed unless you can't remove them for medical reasons, in which case you need a signed doctor's note.

Can I wear glasses in a UK passport photo?

GOV.UK says to avoid them unless you need them. Tinted lenses aren't allowed, and frames or glare must not cover your eyes.

Can I wear contact lenses in a passport photo?

Clear contact lenses are fine. Coloured lenses that change your eye colour are best avoided.

Sources

Checked on 4 Nov 2026. Prices and rules change; always confirm with the official source before you apply. SnapToSubmit is an independent service, not a government website.

Keep reading