Can You Smile in a US Passport Photo?

One of the most common questions travelers ask is, "can you smile in a US passport photo?" According to the U.S. Department of State, you must maintain a neutral facial expression or a natural smile with both eyes open. In practice, that means:

• No exaggerated grins or showing teeth.
• Keep your mouth closed and lips relaxed.
• Face the camera directly with your head centered.

A slight, natural smile is acceptable as long as it doesn't distort your features or create harsh shadows. Think of the look you'd give for a driver's-license picture—pleasant but restrained.

Why the Neutral Look Matters

Facial-recognition systems rely on consistent landmarks (eye corners, mouth edges, jawline). A big grin can stretch or obscure these points, reducing the system's accuracy and increasing the chance your photo will be rejected.

Quick Tips for a Pass-Ready Photo

1. Relax your face for a minute before the shot to avoid a tense expression.
2. Look straight at the lens; tilting or turning your head can cause rejection.
3. Even lighting eliminates shadows that exaggerate a smile or frown.
4. Avoid filters or editing—digital alterations can invalidate the image.

If you're still uncertain, an online tool like Snap2Pass will check your image against the official template and alert you if your smile is too wide.

Bottom Line

Yes, you can smile in a U.S. passport photo, but keep it subtle and natural. Follow the neutral-expression rule, and you'll breeze through the approval process.

Need a fast way to create a compliant picture? Try Snap2Pass today!