Can You Wear a Hijab or Head Covering in a Passport Photo?
Yes. Religious head coverings such as a hijab, turban or kippah are allowed if you wear them daily for religious reasons, as long as your full face is visible from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead and both edges of your face show, with no shadows. A face covering such as a niqab or burka that hides the face is not allowed. The US asks for a signed statement for the religious exception.
Last updated 2026-06-10
Religious head coverings are allowed
Every major authority allows head coverings that are worn daily for religious reasons. The condition is the same everywhere: your full face must be visible, from the bottom of your chin to the top of your forehead, with both edges of your face showing and no shadows cast across your face by the covering.
What is and is not allowed
| Allowed | Not allowed |
|---|---|
| Hijab, turban, kippah and similar worn daily for religion | Niqab, burka or any covering that hides part of the face |
| A plain covering in a single colour | Patterned or shadow-casting coverings over the face |
| Covering pinned back so the full face shows | Anything covering the eyes, eyebrows, chin or face edges |
Country specifics
- United States: head coverings are allowed for religious or medical reasons; you may be asked to provide a signed statement, and your full face must be visible with no shadows.
- United Kingdom: head coverings are not permitted except for religious or medical reasons, and your facial features must be clearly visible.
- India: head coverings are not permitted except for religious reasons; the chin to forehead and both edges of the face must be visible.
Frequently asked questions
Can you wear a hijab in a US passport photo?
Yes. A hijab worn daily for religious reasons is allowed as long as your full face is visible with no shadows. The US may ask for a signed statement supporting the religious head covering.
Can you wear a niqab or face veil in a passport photo?
No. A niqab, burka or any covering that hides part of the face is not allowed. Your full face from chin to forehead must be visible.
Can you wear a turban in a passport photo?
Yes. A turban worn for religious reasons is allowed provided your full face is visible and the turban does not cast shadows across your face.