Hijab Passport Photo

Can You Wear a Hijab for a U.S. Passport Photo?

Yes, hijab passport photographs are accepted by the U.S. State Department. So, you can wear a hijab for your passport picture.

Although the U.S. State Department has not kept any restrictions on religious head coverings, a niqab passport photo—where the face is covered with a veil—is not permitted.

Here is a proper guide for Muslim women who wear hijab on a daily basis:

Face Visibility

Your entire face must be visible in the photograph. The hijab should not cover any part of your face, including your forehead, eyes, and chin. The photo should clearly show your facial features and outline.

Head Covering Guidelines

The U.S. Department of State specifies that the head covering must not cast shadows on your face. Ensure that the hijab is worn in a way that does not create shadows or obscure your facial features. It should not cover your eyebrows or cast a shadow over your eyes.

Contrast and Color

The head covering should contrast sufficiently with the background. Avoid wearing a white or light-colored headscarf, as it may blend in with the backdrop and lead to passport picture rejection.

Consistency

If you regularly wear a hijab as part of your religious beliefs, wearing it consistently in your passport image is recommended. It helps ensure that your photo accurately represents your appearance and facilitates identification.

Suppose you have specific concerns or questions about wearing a hijab in your U.S. passport picture. In that case, contacting the U.S. Department of State or a passport acceptance facility is advisable for further clarification. They will provide the most accurate information and guidance based on your circumstances.

Can You Take a U.S. Passport Photo with a Niqab or Burka?

The guidelines for passport pictures specify that the entire face must be visible and uncovered. Therefore, wearing a niqab or burqa covering the face entirely except for the eyes would not meet the requirements for a U.S. passport photo. Without obstructions, the U.S. Department of State requires a clear view of the entire face, including the forehead, eyes, nose, mouth, and chin.

Passport images are used for identification purposes, and it is essential that the image accurately represents the individual's facial features for easy recognition and verification. As such, individuals are generally not allowed to wear any face-covering items, including niqabs or burkas, that significantly obscure the face.

How Much Does a Hijab Passport Picture Cost?

The price range for a woman’s hijab passport-size photo is the same as for a regular passport image, without any additional charges. Passport photos cost around $5 to $20, depending on the location and the service provider. It's worth noting that prices can also differ based on whether you choose to have physical prints or opt for digital copies.

To determine the exact cost, it's advisable to contact local passport picture studios, photography stores, or online services that offer passport picture services and inquire about their pricing specifically for passport photos with a hijab. They will be able to provide accurate information on their pricing structure and any additional fees that may apply.

Always look for discounts, as some places give discounts to their members or locals. When you contact the service provider, it's always a good idea to inquire about any available promotions.

Here’s a general cost overview at different locations:

Where to Get a Hijab Passport Photo in the US?

In the US, several options are available to get a passport photo in hijab. Here are a few places to consider getting a passport picture taken while wearing a hijab:

Local Passport Acceptance Facility

Visit a nearby passport acceptance facility, such as a post office, county clerk's office, or public library. Many of these locations have passport image services available and should be accommodating if you want to wear a hijab in the photo.

Professional Photo Studios

Look for professional photo studios in your area that offer passport picture services. Call ahead and inquire about their policy regarding hijab during passport picture sessions. Some studios may have experience working with individuals wearing religious head coverings.

Retail Stores

Many retail stores and pharmacies with photo centers, such as Walmart, CVS, Walgreens, and Costco, offer passport image services. Check with these stores to ensure they can accommodate your request to wear a hijab in the photo.

Online Services

Pixelied's online passport image tool respects users' diverse needs. It makes it easy to create a passport picture even while wearing a hijab. Simply upload your image, and the tool will automatically adjust it, ensuring it meets the State Department's requirements.

Pixelied carefully considers the parameters set for religious attire, such as the hijab, ensuring the face is visible, and the religious headgear does not cast shadows on the face. Thus, it offers an inclusive, easy-to-use solution for generating compliant passport photos for everyone.

What Are the Requirements for a Hijab Passport Photo?

The basic guidelines for a hijab passport picture are the same as for ordinary passport photos, and all the procedures must be followed.

Here are some general considerations:

Facial Features

The face must be fully visible in the picture, including the forehead, eyes, and chin. Ensure that the hijab does not cover any of these features. Make sure there are no shadows or glare on your face caused by the hijab. The lighting should be even and not create any distortions or obstructions.

Hijab Color and Style

Choose a hijab color contrasting with the background and clothing to ensure your face stands out clearly in the photo. Avoid patterned or white hijab that may cause distractions.

Hijab Coverage

The hijab should cover your hair, neck, and ears while leaving your face fully visible. Make sure there are no loose strands of hair or gaps that reveal the shape of your head.

No Accessories or Obstructions

Avoid wearing any accessories, such as sunglasses or hats, that obstruct the view of your face. Your facial features should be visible without any obstructions.

How to Take a Passport-Size Photo in a Hijab at Home?

If you're looking to take a passport-size photo in a hijab at home, it can be easily achieved through a few simple steps:

Step 1: Find a well-lit area

Look for a location in your home that has good lighting. Natural light near a window is ideal.

Step 2: Set up a plain background

Choose a plain, light-colored wall or hang a sheet as a backdrop.

Avoid any patterns, reflections, and distractions in the background.

Step 3: Dress appropriately in a hijab

Wear your hijab according to your personal preference and in a manner that adheres to the guidelines provided by the U.S. State Department. Ensure your facial features, including your forehead, eyes, and chin, are visible.

Step 4: Use a tripod or stable surface

Position your camera on a tripod or sturdy surface. It will help ensure a steady shot and prevent any blurriness or distortion caused by camera movement.

Step 5: Set up the camera

If using a digital camera, adjust the settings to the highest resolution available. Ensure the smartphone camera is set to its highest quality.

Step 6: Frame the shot

Position yourself in front of the camera, facing forward, and ensure your face is centered in the frame. Leave space above your head and sides to meet the passport picture requirements.

Step 7: Take multiple shots

Take several shots to increase your chances of capturing a good photo.

Once you've completed the steps, review the images and ensure your face is visible, your hijab is worn correctly, and you're satisfied with the result. Then, select the best picture from the ones you captured.

Step 8: Print and cut the photo

Use Pixelied’s passport picture tool to crop the picture to the required passport size and make minor brightness, contrast, or color balance adjustments. The tool will ensure that the edited picture still looks natural and meets the specifications.

Print the final photo on high-quality glossy photo paper. Ensure the print size matches the 2” by 2” dimensions. Carefully cut out the excessive paper; your pictures will be ready to submit along with your passport application.