Can You Wear Glasses in Passport Photo?
Complete guide to glasses rules for passport and visa photos. Learn country-specific rules, how to avoid glare, and when to remove eyewear.
Overview: Glasses in Passport Photos
Whether you can wear glasses in your passport photo depends on which country's document you are applying for. The rules have been tightening globally as biometric facial recognition systems become more sophisticated.
The safest approach is to remove glasses entirely, but if you prefer to keep them, this guide covers country-specific rules and how to avoid common issues like glare.
General Rules for Glasses in Photos
May Be Allowed
- ✅ Clear prescription lenses
- ✅ Glasses you wear daily
- ✅ Anti-reflective coated lenses
- ✅ Thin, non-decorative frames
Never Allowed
- ❌ Sunglasses (any type)
- ❌ Tinted lenses
- ❌ Photochromic/transition lenses (if darkened)
- ❌ Glasses with glare covering eyes
Country-Specific Rules
| Country | Allowed? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| India | ✅ Yes | Clear glasses OK, no glare |
| United States | ❌ No | NO glasses since 2016 |
| UK | ✅ Yes | Clear glasses OK, no glare |
| Schengen/EU | ✅ Yes | Clear glasses OK |
| Canada | ✅ Yes | Clear glasses OK |
| Australia | ✅ Yes | Clear glasses OK |
US Visa Warning
The United States strictly prohibits eyeglasses in visa photos since November 2016. This applies to all US visas (B1/B2, H1B, F1) and US passport applications.
Avoiding Glare on Glasses
Glare Prevention
- ✅ Angled lighting: Position lights at 45° angles
- ✅ Slight head tilt: Tilt chin down to angle glasses
- ✅ Diffused light: Use soft, diffused lighting
- ✅ Clean lenses: Remove all smudges
- ✅ Multiple shots: Take many photos and check each
Types of Eyewear: What's Allowed?
| Type | Allowed? |
|---|---|
| Clear prescription glasses | ✅ Usually |
| Sunglasses | ❌ Never |
| Tinted lenses | ❌ No |
| Transition lenses | ⚠️ Must be clear |
| Colored contacts | ❌ No |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear glasses in Indian passport photo?
Yes, clear prescription glasses are allowed for Indian passport photos. Your eyes must be fully visible without any glare on the lenses. Tinted lenses are not permitted.
Can I wear glasses in US visa photo?
No. Since November 2016, the US does NOT allow glasses in visa or passport photos, except for rare documented medical necessity.
What about sunglasses for passport photos?
Sunglasses are NEVER allowed in any passport or visa photo, regardless of country.
How do I avoid glare on glasses in photos?
Position lights at 45-degree angles, tilt head slightly down, clean glasses thoroughly, and use diffused lighting.
Are anti-glare glasses better for passport photos?
Yes, glasses with anti-reflective coating are much easier to photograph without glare.
Can I wear reading glasses in my passport photo?
Only if you wear them regularly. Photos should represent your everyday appearance.
What if I cannot see without my glasses?
Remove glasses just for the photo moment. Focus on camera position and have someone guide you.
Are colored contact lenses allowed in passport photos?
No, colored contacts that change eye color are not allowed. Your photo must show natural eye color.
What if my glasses leave marks on my nose?
Remove glasses 5-10 minutes before the photo to allow marks to fade.
Should I wear glasses in passport if I had LASIK?
No. If you no longer need glasses, do not wear them in your passport photo.