Can You Wear Glasses in a Passport Photo?
No. The United States banned glasses in passport photos in November 2016, allowing them only with a signed medical statement. The UK, India, Canada and Schengen countries all require your eyes to be fully visible with no glare, reflection or tint, so the safest choice everywhere is to take your glasses off.
Last updated 2026-06-10
The United States banned glasses in 2016
Since 1 November 2016, the US Department of State has not allowed eyeglasses in passport photos. The only exception is a rare medical case, which requires a signed statement from a doctor. Sunglasses and tinted glasses are never allowed.
Glasses rules by country
| Country | Glasses rule |
|---|---|
| United States | Not allowed (medical exception needs a doctor's note) |
| United Kingdom | Strongly advised against; if worn, no tint, no glare, eyes fully visible |
| India | Remove; no tinted glasses, eyes clearly visible without glare |
| Canada | Allowed only if eyes are clearly visible with no glare or reflection |
| Schengen / EU | Eyes must be visible; tinted lenses and glare are not accepted |
Why glasses cause rejections
- Glare or a reflection on the lens hides part of the eye.
- Thick frames cover the eyes or cast shadows.
- Tinted or photochromic lenses darken the eyes.
Frequently asked questions
Can you wear glasses in a US passport photo?
No. Eyeglasses have not been allowed in US passport photos since 1 November 2016, except in rare medical cases that require a signed doctor's statement.
Can you wear glasses in a UK passport photo?
It is strongly advised not to. If you must wear them they cannot be tinted, there must be no glare on the lenses, and your eyes must be clearly visible.
Are tinted or transition glasses allowed?
No. Tinted, dark or photochromic lenses that darken your eyes are not accepted in any country. Remove them for the photo.