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Passport Photo Rejected?
Fix It Once. Get Approved Fast.

The step-by-step guide that shows you exactly why your U.S. passport photo was rejected — and how to submit a 100% compliant photo on your next try.

👉 No guesswork.
👉 No delays.
👉 No second rejection.

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Why Fix This Before You Reapply

Every rejected submission costs:

  • Time

  • Money

  • Momentum

Fixing the problem once is cheaper than fixing it twice.

This guide costs less than a resubmission delay — and can save you weeks.

Simple. Clear. Worth It.

If your passport photo was rejected and you don’t want to risk another delay, this guide gives you the clarity you’re missing.

No subscription.
No upsells.
Instant download.

Stop Guessing. Get Approved.

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✔ Instant digital download
✔ One-time payment
✔ Designed for U.S. passport applications

Thanks to passportphotorejected.com, I fixed my photo issues quickly and got my passport approved!

J. Lee

A smiling person holding a newly issued U.S. passport with a clear, well-lit passport photo.
A smiling person holding a newly issued U.S. passport with a clear, well-lit passport photo.
Close-up of a rejected passport photo with red marks highlighting common mistakes like poor lighting and wrong background.
Close-up of a rejected passport photo with red marks highlighting common mistakes like poor lighting and wrong background.

★★★★★

❓ Frequently Asked Questions – Passport Photo Rejected

Why was my passport photo rejected?

Passport photos are usually rejected because they don’t meet official requirements. The most common reasons include poor lighting, shadows on the face, incorrect background, wrong photo size, head position issues, glasses glare, or facial expressions that are not neutral.

What should I do if my passport photo is rejected?

You should immediately review the rejection notice, identify the specific issue, and retake or correct the photo following official guidelines. Acting fast helps avoid delays in your passport application.

Can I fix a rejected passport photo without going to a studio?

Yes. Many passport photos can be corrected at home using a smartphone and proper setup. With the right steps, you can adjust lighting, background, cropping, and positioning to meet approval standards.

How many times can a passport photo be rejected?

There is no strict limit, but each rejection can significantly delay your application. Repeated rejections may also result in additional costs or appointment rescheduling.

How long does passport photo review take?

Photo review times vary depending on the application method. Online submissions may take a few hours to several days, while mailed applications can take longer.

Can I reuse a rejected passport photo?

Usually no. Once a photo is rejected, it’s recommended to submit a new corrected photo rather than resubmitting the same image.

Why are passport photos rejected for lighting issues?

Photos are rejected when lighting creates shadows, uneven brightness, glare, or overexposure. Even small lighting errors can trigger automatic rejection systems.

Are glasses allowed in passport photos?

In most cases, glasses are not allowed. Even when permitted for medical reasons, glare or frame obstruction often causes rejection.

Can I smile in a passport photo?

No. Passport photos require a neutral facial expression with both eyes open and mouth closed. Smiling or frowning can lead to rejection.

What background is required for a passport photo?

A plain white or off-white background with no patterns, textures, or shadows is required. Any visible objects or color variations can cause rejection.

Can I take a passport photo with my phone?

Yes. Smartphone photos are accepted if they meet all technical and official requirements. Most rejections happen due to incorrect setup, not the device itself.

Why was my passport photo rejected even if it looks fine?

Government systems use strict automated checks. Minor issues invisible to the human eye—like contrast, resolution, or shadow levels—can still cause rejection.

Do online passport photo tools guarantee approval?

No tool can guarantee approval. Many online tools fail to detect subtle issues that lead to rejection during official review.

How do I avoid getting my passport photo rejected again?

Follow a step-by-step checklist, use proper lighting and background, and double-check size and composition before submission.

Is this website affiliated with the government?

No. This website is an independent informational resource and is not affiliated with any government agency.

Will fixing my passport photo delay my application?

Fixing the photo quickly can prevent long delays. Ignoring the issue or resubmitting incorrect photos usually causes more delays.

Does this guide work for U.S. passport photos?

Yes. The guide is specifically designed to help meet U.S. passport photo requirements and common rejection criteria.

Is the guide useful if my photo was rejected multiple times?

Absolutely. The guide addresses advanced and less obvious reasons for repeated rejections.

How fast can I fix my rejected passport photo?

Most users can fix their photo in less than 30 minutes when following a clear step-by-step method.

What happens if my passport photo keeps getting rejected?

Multiple rejections may require a new appointment, additional fees, or extended processing times.

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