The Short Answer
In 2026, most major countries do not allow glasses in passport photos. The US, UK, Canada, Australia, India, China, and most EU countries have all banned eyewear in passport and visa photos.
The reason is simple: glasses cause glare, reflections, and shadows that interfere with facial recognition systems. Even clear prescription lenses can create problems.
Country-by-Country Rules
| Country | Glasses Allowed? | Since | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇺🇸 United States | ❌ No | Nov 2016 | Medical exception with doctor's note only |
| 🇬🇧 United Kingdom | ❌ No | 2018 | No exceptions |
| 🇨🇦 Canada | ❌ No | 2020 | No glasses of any kind |
| 🇦🇺 Australia | ❌ No | 2018 | No exceptions |
| 🇮🇳 India | ❌ No | 2019 | No glasses in passport or visa photos |
| 🇨🇳 China | ❌ No | 2017 | No eyewear of any kind |
| 🇯🇵 Japan | ❌ No | 2021 | Removed from accepted items |
| 🇩🇪 Germany | ❌ No | 2024 | New biometric rules ban glasses |
| 🇫🇷 France | ❌ No | 2020 | No glasses allowed |
| 🇳🇱 Netherlands | ❌ No | 2020 | No glasses allowed |
| 🇨🇭 Switzerland | ⚠️ Discouraged | — | Clear lenses OK if no glare, but removal recommended |
| 🇳🇴 Norway | ❌ No | 2020 | No glasses allowed |
| 🇰🇷 South Korea | ❌ No | 2019 | No eyewear |
| 🇧🇷 Brazil | ❌ No | 2020 | No glasses |
| 🇲🇽 Mexico | ❌ No | 2018 | No glasses |
Why Were Glasses Banned?
Passport photos are processed by automated facial recognition systems. Glasses cause three problems:
- Glare and reflections — Even anti-reflective lenses can produce glare from studio lights or flash, obscuring the eyes
- Shadows — Frames cast shadows on the face, especially around the eyes and cheekbones
- Obstruction — Thick frames can partially cover the eyes, eyebrows, or the area around the eyes that facial recognition systems analyze
The US State Department reported that glasses were the #1 reason for passport photo rejections before the 2016 ban.
What About Sunglasses and Tinted Lenses?
Absolutely not. Sunglasses, tinted lenses, transition lenses, and colored contact lenses are banned in every country. This includes:
- Prescription sunglasses
- Photochromic / transition lenses (even if they appear clear indoors)
- Blue-light blocking glasses with visible tint
- Fashion glasses with colored lenses
- Clip-on sunglasses
Medical Exceptions
Very few countries offer medical exceptions, and the process is strict:
United States
You need a signed statement from your doctor (MD or DO) on medical letterhead that explains:
- Why you cannot remove your glasses
- That the condition is long-term or permanent
- The doctor's license number and contact information
Submit this with your passport application (Form DS-11 or DS-82). Even with the note, your photo must have no glare and both eyes must be clearly visible.
Other Countries
Most countries (UK, Canada, Australia) do not offer medical exceptions for glasses in passport photos. If you have a medical condition affecting your eyes, contact your local passport authority directly.
Tips for Taking a Passport Photo Without Glasses
- Remove glasses at least 30 seconds before — This lets the red marks on your nose fade
- If you squint without glasses — Practice keeping your eyes open naturally. Look slightly above the camera lens.
- Contact lenses are fine — Clear prescription contacts are allowed in all countries. Colored contacts are not.
- Don't worry about looking different — Border agents are trained to recognize faces with and without glasses
- Use good lighting — Without glasses, your eyes are more visible, which actually makes for a better photo
What About Visa Photos?
The same rules apply. US visa photos (B1/B2, H1B, F1, etc.), Schengen visa photos, and most other visa applications follow the same no-glasses policy as passport photos.
If a country bans glasses for passports, they ban them for visas too.
What Happens If You Submit a Photo With Glasses?
Your application will be rejected and returned. This means:
- Delays of 2–6 weeks while you resubmit
- Possible additional fees for reprocessing
- Risk of missing travel dates
It's not worth the risk. Just take them off.
Create Your Passport Photo
Remove your glasses, snap a photo, and upload it. We handle background removal, cropping, and compliance — ready to print in 2 minutes.
Make Passport Photo →Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear glasses in a US passport photo?
No. Since November 2016, the US State Department does not allow glasses in passport photos. The only exception requires a signed medical statement from your doctor.
Are clear prescription glasses allowed?
In most countries, no. The US, UK, Canada, Australia, and most EU countries ban all glasses — including clear prescription lenses.
Can I wear contact lenses?
Clear prescription contact lenses are allowed in all countries. Colored or cosmetic contact lenses are not allowed.
Will border agents recognize me without glasses?
Yes. Border agents and facial recognition systems are designed to match faces with and without glasses. This is not a concern.