Can I wear a hijab in a US passport photo?

Yes, if your full face is visible from bottom of chin to top of forehead with no shadows on facial features.

Can I wear a hat for medical hair loss?

US rules allow head coverings for medical reasons when the face remains fully visible. Confirm on travel.state.gov for your situation.

Does a head covering change photo size rules?

No — dimensions and head-height bands stay the same. The face oval must fit within the crop template.

Are headphones allowed?

No — remove all non-religious/non-medical headwear and accessories.

Head coverings

Hats and head coverings in passport photos

Hats and casual caps are banned in most passport photos. Religious head coverings and documented medical headwear may be allowed if your full face is visible from chin to forehead with no shadow on features.

Check head covering photo Full requirements

Example compliant crops

AI-generated illustrative portraits — not real applicants.

General rule

Published specs for US, UK, Schengen, and Indian passport set hatAllowed false for everyday headwear. Religious garments that do not obscure the oval of the face are typically permitted when the authority can still perform biometric matching.

Religious and medical exceptions

Hijab, turban, or kippah — allowed if entire face visible edge-to-edge
No shadow cast on cheeks or eyes from fabric
Head covering must not hide hairline boundaries required for crop guides
Medical wigs or bandages — document with official guidance if asked

What is never allowed

Baseball caps, beanies, headphones, and costume headwear. Sunglasses on head, visors, or anything casting shadow across the eyes.

Official specifications

Document	US Passport
Country	United States
Dimensions (mm)	51 × 51
Pixels @ DPI	600 × 600 @ 300
Head height	50–69%
Eye line from bottom	56–69%
Background	white
Official source	View official guidance
Last verified	2026-08-18

Create US Passport photo →

Common rejection reasons & fixes

Hard fail: Baseball cap casting shadow on eyes
Remove cap; re-shoot with full face evenly lit
Hard fail: Hijab fabric covering part of chin
Adjust drape so chin, cheeks, and forehead are fully visible

Official sources

Frequently asked questions

Can I wear a hijab in a US passport photo?: Yes, if your full face is visible from bottom of chin to top of forehead with no shadows on facial features.
Can I wear a hat for medical hair loss?: US rules allow head coverings for medical reasons when the face remains fully visible. Confirm on travel.state.gov for your situation.
Does a head covering change photo size rules?: No — dimensions and head-height bands stay the same. The face oval must fit within the crop template.
Are headphones allowed?: No — remove all non-religious/non-medical headwear and accessories.

Related guides

PicsForm matches published requirements; always confirm current rules on the official portal.