U.S. Passport Photo Requirements for the U.S. Virgin Islands
Preparing a correct photo for your United States passport application requires attention to specific rules set by the official authorities. You can use the tool above to help check and crop your image before printing or uploading.
Official Size and Dimensions
A printed U.S. passport photo must be 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 mm)[1]. Online renewals use a digital photo upload[1].
Your head must measure 25 to 35 mm from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head[1]. Checking this size before you print or submit your file helps prevent delays in your application.
Taking the Photo at Home
Natural light works best when taking your picture at home. Face a large window to get bright, even light across your face and avoid dark shadows.
Ask someone else to take the picture rather than taking a selfie. Keep the camera at eye level and several feet away from your face.
Background and Lighting
Use a plain white or off-white background without shadows, texture, or objects[1]. A blank wall works well if it is evenly lit.
Stand several feet from the wall to reduce shadows on the background[1].
Facial Expression, Eyes, and Glasses
Face the camera directly, keep your eyes open, and keep your mouth closed. You may smile, but avoid an exaggerated expression[1].
Face the camera with your eyes open and visible. Remove glasses for the photo. If you cannot remove them for medical reasons, include a signed doctor’s note[1].
Head Coverings and Religious Rules
Remove hats and head coverings unless worn for religious or medical reasons. For religious attire, submit a signed statement that it is religious attire worn daily in public; for medical headwear, submit a signed doctor’s statement[1].
If you wear a head covering, your full face must be visible, with no shadows or blocked areas[1].
Rules for Infants and Children
Children’s passport photos must be 2 x 2 inches, and the head must measure 25 to 35 mm from chin to crown[1].
Place the baby on a plain white or off-white sheet, or in a car seat covered with one. No other person may appear, and the baby’s eyes do not need to be entirely open[1].
Submission and Printing Options
Paper applications require one recent color photo. Online renewals use a digital photo upload[1]. The U.S. Virgin Islands Passport Division accepts applications[2].
The local Passport Division page says to provide two identical photos, while the Department of State page says to submit one[1][3]. Check with the Passport Division about which instruction to follow.
For a paper application, submit a recent, original color photo printed on matte or glossy photo-quality paper[1].
Frequently asked questions
Can I wear glasses in my U.S. passport photo?
No, glasses are not allowed in U.S. passport photos[1].
What size does the photo need to be?
The photo must be 51x51 mm, which is 2.01x2.01 inches[1].
What should the background look like?
The background must be a plain white or off-white background, free of shadows, texture, lines, or objects[1].
How many photos do I need to print?
Can I take a baby passport photo at home?
Yes, lay the infant on a plain white or off-white sheet with no other person visible, keeping the same size and head-height rules[1].