Passport Photo Dress Code
Complete guide to what you should wear for your passport photo. Learn about the best colors, what to avoid, and specific guidelines for men, women, and children.
Why Your Clothing Matters in Passport Photos
While there are no strict rules about exactly what you must wear in a passport photo, your clothing choice significantly affects how your photo looks. The wrong outfit can make you appear washed out, unprofessional, or cause your photo to be rejected.
Since passport photos use a white background, your clothing needs to provide sufficient contrast. Additionally, your passport is a serious identification document, so looking presentable matters. This guide covers everything from color choices to cultural attire to help you look your best.
Best Colors to Wear
Choosing the right color is the single most important clothing decision for your passport photo. Here are the colors that work best:
Recommended Colors
What to Avoid Wearing
Colors and Items to Avoid
Problematic Colors
- ❌ White — Blends with background
- ❌ Cream / Beige — Too similar to white background
- ❌ Light Gray — May wash out against white
- ❌ Neon Colors — Too distracting
- ❌ Bright Prints — Draws attention from face
Items to Avoid
- ❌ Clothing with logos or text
- ❌ Stripes or busy patterns
- ❌ Graphic prints or cartoon characters
- ❌ Shiny or reflective fabrics
- ❌ Uniforms (military, police, etc.)
Dress Code Guidelines for Men
Men have straightforward options for passport photos. Here is what works best:
Recommended for Men
- • Collared shirts: Button-down shirts, polo shirts, or formal shirts work well
- • T-shirts: Plain, solid-colored t-shirts are acceptable
- • Kurtas: Traditional kurtas in solid colors are perfect
- • Suits/Blazers: Not required but look very professional
Pro tip: A dark collared shirt without a tie looks professional and relaxed. This is the go-to choice for most men.
Dress Code Guidelines for Women
Women have many options but should follow the same core principles of contrast and simplicity:
Recommended for Women
- • Blouses: Solid-colored blouses with modest necklines
- • Kurtas: Plain or minimally embroidered kurtas
- • Saree blouses: Choose a solid, contrasting color
- • Salwar tops: Simple, elegant designs work best
- • Formal tops: Button-downs and semi-formal tops
Makeup tip: Natural makeup is recommended. Avoid heavy contouring, dramatic eyeshadow, or bold lip colors that might not age well over the passport's validity.
Dress Code for Children
Children's passport photos follow the same general rules but with more flexibility:
Tips for Children's Photos
- ✅ Simple solid-colored tops work best
- ✅ School polo shirts (without large logos) are acceptable
- ✅ Avoid cartoon characters or superhero graphics
- ✅ Choose comfortable clothing so children do not fidget
- ✅ Avoid hoods or large collars that might cover the chin
Traditional Indian Attire
Traditional Indian clothing is fully accepted and encouraged for passport photos. India celebrates its cultural diversity, and this extends to passport photography.
For Women
- ✅ Sarees (choose solid-colored blouse)
- ✅ Salwar kameez
- ✅ Anarkalis
- ✅ Kurtis with minimal embroidery
For Men
- ✅ Kurtas and kurta-pajamas
- ✅ Sherwanis
- ✅ Nehru jackets
- ✅ Formal traditional wear
Religious Head Coverings
Religious head coverings are allowed in Indian passport photos. This includes:
- Turbans for Sikhs
- Hijabs for Muslim women
- Topis and caps for religious purposes
- Head scarves worn for religious reasons
The only requirement is that your full face from forehead to chin must be clearly visible. The head covering should not cast shadows on your face.
Jewelry and Accessories
Jewelry is allowed in passport photos, but keeping it minimal is recommended:
Jewelry Guidelines
✅ Acceptable
- • Small earrings
- • Simple necklaces
- • Wedding rings
- • Small nose pins
- • Subtle mangalsutra
❌ Not Recommended
- • Large statement earrings
- • Chunky necklaces
- • Reflective jewelry causing glare
- • Headpieces covering forehead
Quick Preparation Tips
Before Your Photo
- 1. Iron your clothes: Wrinkled clothing looks unprofessional.
- 2. Check in mirror: Make sure nothing is crooked or out of place.
- 3. Avoid last-minute changes: Do not buy new clothes just for the photo.
- 4. Consider your complexion: Choose colors that complement your skin tone.
- 5. Keep it simple: When in doubt, solid navy or black always works.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear white in my passport photo?
White is not recommended because it blends with the white background required for passport photos. Your clothing edges may disappear, making the photo look awkward. Choose colors that contrast with white, such as dark blue, black, maroon, or dark green.
Are patterns and prints allowed in passport photos?
Solid colors work best for passport photos. While patterns are not strictly prohibited, busy prints, stripes, and loud patterns can distract from your face and look unprofessional. Stick to simple, solid colors for the best result.
Can I wear traditional Indian clothes?
Yes, traditional Indian attire is completely acceptable. Sarees, salwar kameez, kurtas, sherwanis, and other cultural clothing are all permitted. Focus on choosing colors that contrast with the white background.
Do I need to wear formal clothes for passport photos?
There is no requirement for formal attire. You can wear casual clothes as long as they look neat and presentable. The main considerations are color (avoiding white) and avoiding inappropriate graphics or text.
Can I wear religious head coverings?
Yes, religious head coverings including turbans, hijabs, head scarves, and other religious headwear are allowed in Indian passport photos. The only requirement is that your full face from chin to forehead must be clearly visible.
What about uniforms for passport photos?
Uniforms are generally discouraged unless they are daily civilian clothing. Military, police, or other official uniforms should be avoided. If your work attire is a standard polo or button-down shirt, that is acceptable.
Can I wear sunglasses in my passport photo?
No, sunglasses are never allowed in passport photos. Your eyes must be clearly visible. Prescription glasses with clear lenses are acceptable as long as there is no glare on the lenses.
Is it okay to wear low-cut or sleeveless tops?
Passport photos are cropped to show primarily your face and a small portion of shoulders. While sleeveless tops are technically allowed, modest necklines appear more professional and are recommended.
Should I match my clothing to my skin tone?
Choosing colors that complement your skin tone can help you look your best. Darker skin tones often photograph well with jewel tones like emerald or royal blue. Lighter skin tones work well with navy, burgundy, or forest green.
Can children wear casual clothes for passport photos?
Yes, children can wear casual, neat clothing. Avoid graphic tees with cartoon characters or bright prints. A simple solid-colored top works best. School uniforms without logos are also acceptable.
Dressed and Ready? Create Your Photo
Put on the right outfit and create your passport photo for free in minutes.
Create Free Passport Photo →