Guidelines for Wearing Eyeglass Frames in Passport Photos

Rules for passport photos require that eyeglass frames must not obstruct the eyes and reflection should be minimized or glasses must be removed.

A frame is the structure that holds the lenses in place in a pair of glasses, also known as spectacles.

Glasses are an optical device worn in front of the eyes to correct visual impairments.

Frames and Facial Shapes

Different types of sunglasses or eyeglass frames match various facial shapes:

  • Square Face: Prominent cheekbones, a broad forehead, and angular jaws work well with round or oval frames.
  • Round Face: A contrasting angular shape will make the face look longer and slimmer. Narrow frames draw attention upwards, making the face appear longer rather than round.
  • Oblong Face: Square or round glasses make the face appear shorter. An oblong face can handle a slightly larger frame, as it is often balanced with the rest of the face.
  • Diamond-Shaped Face: Oval-shaped glasses or frames with rounded corners look best with wide cheekbones and a narrow forehead and chin.
  • Oval Face: It pairs well with most frames, such as aviator or square glasses. Virtually all types of eyeglass frames look good with this facial shape.
  • Heart-Shaped Face: Wider at the top and tapering to a point at the chin. Aviator or partially rimless glasses suit this face shape.

Rules for Frames on Passport Photos

In the passport photo rules, there is a separate section dedicated to eyeglasses.

When wearing glasses, the eyes must be fully visible in the photo. The frame or lenses must not obstruct the eyes in any way, and reflection on the frame should be avoided as much as possible.

If it is not possible to prevent disruptive reflection through the glasses, the glasses must be removed.

Only glasses that are always worn, such as corrective glasses, can also be worn on passport photos. Reading glasses, safety glasses, 3d glasses, diving goggles, welding glasses, ski goggles, and sunglasses are not acceptable.