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US Federal Ban on Glasses (2016)
In 2016, the US Department of State implemented a federal ban on eyeglasses in passport photos. This marked a significant shift from the previous policy, which allowed glasses as long as they didn't obscure the eyes. The new rule is strict: no glasses in your passport photo, period.
The ban applies to all US passport applications, including:
- New passport books
- Passport card applications
- Passport renewals with new photos
- Expedited passport applications
Why the change? The Department of State cited biometric security concerns. Glasses can create glare on lenses, obscure the eye area, and affect facial recognition algorithms that are becoming increasingly important for border security and identification verification.
Medical Exemptions: How to Get One
If you have a medical condition that makes it impossible or unsafe to remove your glasses for a photo, there is one legitimate path: a medical exemption.
How to obtain a medical exemption:
- Visit a licensed physician (MD or DO)
- Explain that you need a medical statement for your passport photo
- The physician must provide a signed, written statement documenting the medical reason you cannot remove your glasses
- Include this statement with your passport application
- Submit your photo taken with glasses alongside the medical exemption
Important: The exemption must come from a licensed physician. Self-certification or statements from optometrists do not qualify. The statement should be on the physician's letterhead and must be signed.
Legitimate medical reasons that might qualify include severe corneal abrasion, recent eye surgery recovery, photophobia (extreme light sensitivity), or conditions where contact lenses cannot be worn. However, simple refractive error (needing glasses to see clearly) does not qualify as a medical exemption reason.
The rejection rate for medical exemption applications is relatively high. The State Department reviews each case carefully, so your exemption must be genuinely medically necessary.
International Rules: Countries That Allow Glasses
While the US has a strict ban, not all countries follow the same policy. Some nations still allow glasses in passport photos, though most have imposed conditions to prevent glare and ensure facial recognition compatibility.
Countries that allow glasses (with conditions):
- United Kingdom: Glasses allowed if eyes are fully visible, no glare, no tinted lenses
- Canada: Glasses permitted if they don't obscure eyes, no heavy tint, minimal reflection
- Australia: Spectacles allowed if they don't hide eyes or eyebrows, no dark tint
- Germany: Glasses acceptable if no reflection and eyes are clear
- France: Generally allows glasses with conditions similar to UK requirements
General conditions when glasses ARE allowed:
- No glare or reflection on the lenses
- No dark, tinted, or photochromic lenses
- Eyes must be fully visible and clear
- Frames should not obstruct eyes or eyebrows
- Natural expression, mouth closed
If you're applying for a passport in another country, check that country's specific requirements before your photo session. Requirements can change, and some countries are tightening rules to align with international biometric standards.
Tips for Photographing With Glasses (When Allowed)
If your country allows glasses in passport photos, here are practical tips to ensure your photo meets requirements:
Reducing glare:
- Position the light source slightly above your head to minimize lens reflection
- Tilt your head slightly to the side if needed to avoid direct light reflection
- Consider anti-glare coatings on your lenses before the photo session
- Professional photographers have experience managing light to prevent glare on eyeglasses
Lens clarity:
- Clean your glasses thoroughly before the photo session
- Use clear, single-vision lenses (no bifocals visible in the photo)
- Ensure your eyes are clearly visible through the lenses
- Avoid transition lenses or photochromic lenses (they may appear dark)
Frame selection:
- Choose frames that don't obscure your eyes or eyebrows
- Avoid oversized frames that cover too much of your face
- Metal frames with minimal reflection are generally better than plastic
- Ensure frames sit properly on your nose without tilting
Contact Lenses and Other Alternatives
If you need vision correction and are applying for a US passport (or any passport with strict glasses rules), consider these alternatives:
Contact lenses: This is the most popular solution. Contact lenses provide the same vision correction without the glare and obstruction issues associated with eyeglasses. Soft contacts, rigid gas-permeable lenses, and daily disposables all work well for passport photos. If you don't normally wear contacts, you may need to schedule a fitting with your optometrist in advance.
Temporary corrective measures: Some people choose to wear contacts just for their passport photo session, even if they normally wear glasses. Others opt for LASIK or PRK surgery if they're considering permanent vision correction anyway, though surgery recovery timing must be considered for photo scheduling.
Accept the photo without correction: This is not ideal for those with significant refractive error, but some people decide to proceed without optical correction for their photo. However, this may create other issues—biometric systems might struggle to match your appearance if your eyes appear noticeably different without correction.
Validate Your Glasses Photo Before Submitting
Whether you're applying for a US passport or an international passport that allows glasses, photo validation can save you from rejection and the hassle of retaking your photo.
Check Your Photo Before You Submit
PhotoValid checks your passport photo against official government requirements — without changing a single pixel.
Validate Your Photo FreeFrequently Asked Questions
Can you wear glasses in a US passport photo?
No, as of 2016, the US Department of State banned eyeglasses in passport photos except in rare cases with a signed medical exemption from a licensed physician.
How do I get a medical exemption for glasses in my passport photo?
You need a signed statement from a licensed physician (MD or DO) stating that you cannot remove your glasses for medical reasons. Submit this statement with your passport application along with your photo taken with glasses.
What countries still allow glasses in passport photos?
Several countries including the UK, Canada, Australia, Germany, and France allow glasses under specific conditions: no glare on lenses, no tinted lenses, eyes fully visible, and appropriate frame size.
Can I wear sunglasses in any passport photo?
No, sunglasses and tinted glasses are prohibited in all passport photos, regardless of country. This includes prescription sunglasses and transition lenses.
Should I wear contact lenses instead of glasses for my passport photo?
Contact lenses are an excellent alternative if you wear glasses and are applying for a US passport or another country with strict rules. They provide vision correction without the glare and obstruction issues of eyeglasses.
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