We get asked all the time what to wear for passport photos. Hopefully, you’re still at home with time to change rather than reading this guide from the parking lot – because wardrobe malfunctions are one of the most common reasons passport photos get rejected!
We’ll walk you through what to wear for a passport photo below, but it’s pretty simple. A solid, darker top with a simple neckline is your best bet. Don’t wear white or light grey shirts, and avoid busy patterns or logos. Leave accessories at home if you can (hats, headbands, earrings, even glasses) unless approved for religious reasons.
Your hair should be styled so the face and shoulders are fully visible, and makeup must be kept light. The goal is to get the most accurate representation of what you look like without any alterations.
We take all the stress out of getting passport photos taken. Visit us for passport photos in Edmonton or passport photos in Calgary, and you’ll enjoy rapid turnaround times, an approval guarantee, and the lowest prices possible!
What to Wear For a Passport Photo: Colors, Head Coverings, and More You Need to Know
It’s no secret that there are strict rules for getting passport photos taken. The stakes are too high to take any chances given how lengthy the approval process can be. You don’t want to end up getting a rejection at the last minute and miss a trip because of it.
Here’s what to wear for passport photos, starting with colors.
What Color to Wear for a Passport Photo
Color matters more than most people realize. Canadian passport photos use a light, neutral background, so clothing should clearly separate your face and shoulders from that backdrop. That’s to say we recommend darker, solid colors such as:
- Navy
- Charcoal
- Deep green
- Burgundy
- Black
- Etc.
Mid-tone colors like muted blue or olive are also safe choices. What you should avoid are white, cream, or light greys. These colors blend into the background and can make your shoulders disappear on camera, leading to flagged photos and a rejected passport application.
Bright neon colors and anything reflective can also cause exposure problems under studio lighting. When in doubt, keep it as simple as possible!
Outfit Recommendations for Passport Photos
As for what to wear for passport photos, there aren’t exactly hard and fast wardrobe requirements. There are some best practices, though. Just stick with everyday clothing that looks clean and fitted, not oversized or slouchy.
A basic t-shirt, sweater, or button-up with a modest neckline works well. Crew necks, shallow V-necks, and collared shirts are all fine as long as the collar doesn’t cover your chin. Avoid strapless tops or anything that makes it look like you aren’t wearing clothing in the photo.
We talked about what color to wear for a passport photo, but what about patterns? We usually suggest avoiding them if possible. Small textures are fine, but bold stripes, large logos, or graphic prints pull attention away from your face. We’ve also seen them distort in the final print.
There’s nothing wrong with layering up. We get it – our winters are brutal! But just make sure everything sits flat. Bulky scarves or thick collars are going to create shadows that don’t photograph well.
A Word on Hair, Makeup, and Accessories
We know you came here to learn what to wear for passport photos, but how you style your hair and makeup matters just as much – if not more.
As you can imagine, your hair must be styled so your full face is visible. Keep it off your eyes and avoid heavy volume that casts shadows across your cheeks or forehead. You can wear your hair down, just make sure it’s not covering your face shape at all.
Makeup should look like “you on a normal day.” That means there’s nothing wrong with throwing a little foundation on. In fact, it can help minimize shine under bright lights. Just don’t go full glam. Skip heavy contouring, dramatic lashes, or glossy products that reflect light.
Follow the same principles when it comes to accessories – minimalist. Small stud earrings are usually fine, but large hoops or dangling pieces can interfere with facial visibility. Necklaces are best avoided since they’re rarely visible anyway. Our advice is to just take these things off. They’re only going to cause more harm than good.
What About Glasses?
This is something we see a lot of uncertainty about. Can you wear glasses if you have a prescription? The answer is usually no. Even if there’s a documented medical reason, lenses can cause glare while frames can cover parts of your eyes.
Reflections are one of the most common culprits of passport photos being rejected. You’re way better off removing your glasses for the photo. You can put them right back on the second you get your photo taken.
Sunglasses, tinted lenses, and fashion glasses are never allowed.
What Not to Wear When Getting Passport Photos Taken
Understanding what to wear for passport photos is a good starting point, but knowing what not to wear can sometimes be even more helpful. Here’s what you need to avoid:
- Hats, caps, headbands, or hair accessories
- Uniforms or costumes
- Heavy scarves, turtlenecks pulled up too high, or anything that touches your chin.
- Anything that makes noise, moves easily, or needs adjusting.
It’s worth noting that religious head coverings are allowed, but your full face (from chin to forehead) must be visible. That pretty much covers what to wear for passport photos and what to avoid! So, take the next step at 5 Minute Passport Photos.
Get High-Quality Passport Photos Taken Today!
We’re the experts you turn to when you want your passport photos taken right the first time around – and you want it done lightning fast.
We run dedicated passport photo studios in Edmonton and Calgary, and that’s all we do – no pharmacy counters, multitasking, or guesswork. You’re in and out quickly with photos that meet Canadian government requirements. Here’s why Canadians choose us:
- Dedicated passport and ID photo studios
- Trained staff who take passport photos all day, every day
- Controlled lighting and proper backdrops for clean, clear photos
- Support for Canadian passports, visas, PR cards, and international documents
- Turnaround within minutes
- Straightforward passport photo prices with no surprises
So whether you’re looking for a citizenship photo vs passport photo, get in touch today or just pop in without an appointment – we accept walk-ins as well!
Final Words on What to Wear For Passport Photos (Canada)
Knowing what to wear for passport photos in Canada can save you from retakes, delays, and wasted time. Simple clothing, darker colors, and a clean, everyday look go a long way toward getting your photo accepted without issues.
Don’t take any chances with London Drugs or Shoppers Drug Mart. We’ll review your outfit when you come in, so you don’t have to stress about whether or not you’re wearing the right clothing to guarantee approval.
Take your passport photo correctly the first time – fast, easy, and ready for submission!
Related Resources
- How Long Is A Passport Photo Good For?
- Can You Take Your Own Passport Photo?
- How Long Do Passport Photos Take?
Frequently asked questions
What is the best color to wear for a passport photo?
Dark, solid colors like navy, black, charcoal, or deep green work best because they clearly separate you from the light background.
What is the dress code for passport photos?
There’s no real “dress code” – just keep it simple with everyday clothing. No uniforms, costumes, or anything that covers your face/chin.
Can I smile with teeth in a passport photo?
No – we explicitly ask that you not say cheese! Canadian passport photos require a neutral expression with your mouth closed and eyes fully open.
What is the best hairstyle for a passport photo?
Any natural style is fine as long as your eyes, eyebrows, and full face shape are visible and not covered by hair.
Does it matter what clothes you wear in a passport photo?
Yes. Light colors, busy patterns, and high collars can cause rejections or make the photo unusable.
Do and don’ts for passport pictures?
DO wear simple, dark clothing with minimal (ideally no) accessories. DON’T wear hats, glasses, scarves, or anything reflective or distracting. We’ll be upfront with you about your outfit and if we think it could prompt a rejection. That’s why Canadians trust 5 Minute Passport Photos!