U.S. Passport Online Application and Photo Requirements

U.S. Passport Online Application Process

Applying for a U.S. passport online is a convenient way to start the process without visiting a passport acceptance facility. However, as of now, online applications are only available for renewals. First-time applicants and certain special cases must apply in person.

Steps to Apply Online

1. Check Eligibility

To apply online, you must meet the following requirements:

✔ Be a U.S. citizen aged 16 or older.
✔ Have a previous passport that is undamaged and was issued within the last 15 years.
✔ Your name must be the same or changed with legal documentation.

2. Gather Required Documents

Make sure you have the following:

• Your most recent U.S. passport.
• A passport-style photo that meets official requirements.
• Proof of name change (if applicable).
• A payment method (credit card or electronic bank transfer).

3. Complete the Online Application

• Visit the official U.S. State Department website.
• Fill out the DS-82 renewal form.
• Upload a digital passport photo that meets the requirements.
• Pay the applicable fee.

4. Mail the Required Documents

• Print the confirmation and include it with your old passport.
• Send documents to the address provided in the online instructions.
• Use a trackable mailing service for security.

5. Track Application Status

• Check your application status online using the confirmation number.
• Processing times vary; expedited services are available for an additional fee.

U.S. Passport Photo Requirements

To be accepted by the U.S. Department of State, passport photos must strictly follow these guidelines.

General Photo Requirements

✅ Size: 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm).
✅ Resolution: At least 600 x 600 pixels for digital submissions.
✅ Color: Must be full color; black and white photos are not accepted.
✅ Background: Plain white or off-white, with no shadows.
✅ Expression: Neutral facial expression, eyes open, mouth closed.
✅ Head Position: Facing the camera directly, with the full head visible.
✅ Clothing: No uniforms; casual clothing is acceptable. Religious attire is allowed if worn daily.

Restrictions

🚫 No selfies or heavily edited photos.
🚫 No glasses (unless medically necessary with a doctor’s note).
🚫 No shadows, glare, or overexposure.
🚫 No hats or head coverings (except for religious or medical reasons).
🚫 No digital alterations that modify facial features.

Printing & Submission Guidelines

• Print photos on high-quality matte or glossy photo paper.
• Avoid filters or digital enhancements.
• Ensure the head is between 1 - 1 3/8 inches (25 - 35 mm) from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head.
• Digital submissions must comply with State Department specifications.

By ensuring that both the application and photo meet official standards, applicants can avoid unnecessary delays in passport processing. For the latest updates and full guidelines, always refer to the official U.S. Department of State website.