Passport applications can be stressful. You’re on tiptoes trying not to do anything that will mess it all up. Don’t stress! We’re here to help you, read on below to get all the tricks and tips you’ll need when applying.
What is passport photo processing?
Once you’ve sent off your Passport photo to the US Passport authorities to be checked, what actually happens? Well, your image is subject to Passport photo processing.
This involves a few handling stages where your photo is looked at by the Passport authorities to ensure it is compliant with the US government’s requirements.
This includes:
- Size of photo.
- Quality of photo.
- The appearance of the photographed person.
So when you’re considering taking the perfect Passport photo, you’ll need to make sure you’ve got some important tips and tricks for doing it!
If you’re not sure where to start, our handy app ‘Smartphone iD’ can guide you through the process, and do all the hard stuff for you.
Why is passport photo processing important?
Passport photo processing is a vital part of the application process, in fact, if your photos are rejected, your entire application could be in jeopardy. So don’t wait to inform yourself.
If you choose to use our app ‘Smartphone iD’:
- Your US Passport photos will be verified by our in-house experts.
- Our experts comply with The International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO, international biometric regulator) standards.
- We guarantee secure and speedy services. If your photos are rejected by the Passport authorities (unlikely), we offer a full refund.
Because there are so many things to consider when it comes to taking a Passport photo, we’ve bundled all the solutions into our app. Its algorithm will straighten and correct your US Passport photos for you.
Does passport photo processing take so long?
Trying to wait for your application to be approved without worrying is hard!
And depending on whether your photos conform to the US Passport authorities’ standards, your application could take longer than necessary. No one wants to submit their Passport application, unsure of whether it will be approved or not.
Usually, the routine processing time for US Passports is around 7 to 10 weeks. However, if you don’t want to wait that long, you can pay $60 USD to expedite your application process. This will reduce the time it takes for the application down to 4 to 6 weeks.
Remember that if there are issues with the photos you’ve provided, this could take longer.
According to the U.S Department of State’s website, applying for, or renewing your Passport can cost $130 USD with an additional acceptance fee of $35 USD! So don’t go in blindly when it comes to your US Passport photos being suitable for requirements.
How to make your photo acceptable for processing?
You may be asking “What can I do to make sure my US Passport photo is successful?” Make sure you read carefully below to find out what tricks and tips are key to taking the ideal Passport photo.
The size of the photo
The US government requires that:
- The photo should be 2″x2″ in dimensions.
- The photo is taken with the head centered and between 1″ and 1.4″ in size.
- If you renew online, your photo must be in ‘JPEG’ format and at least 600×600 pixels.
The quality of the photo
When submitting your photo to the US Passport authorities, make sure the photo is sharp with no pixels visible or printing errors.
The appearance
The US Passport authorities require:
- That the applicant’s face is fully visible in the photo.
- No shadows or glaring light obscure the clarity of the applicant’s face.
- Hats and head coverings are not permitted unless worn for religious or medical reasons.
The posture
You must submit a photo where the:
- The person has a neutral expression.
- The applicant is centered, directly facing the camera.
- Eyes are clearly visible.
If you follow these guidelines, you will make your application more likely to succeed. Though, if you’ve not got the time to handle it, ‘Smartphone iD’ can save you time and money through its Passport photo processing features.
How does Smartphone iD make passport photo processing easy for you?
This is where our clever app comes in. Not only can you get a quick and cheap service using ‘Smartphone iD’, but we’ll guarantee your money back in the unlikely event your photos aren’t successful.
Sound good? We think so too.
So here are the benefits of using ‘Smartphone iD‘
- Give us a try: Where ever you are, you can snap photos using our app and receive pre-approved document photos for any country.
- Our app does the work: When you take photos with our app, you’ll be guided through the process, from start to finish.
- Expert check: Our experts trained by ICAO, will examine your photos and send them to you digitally (email) once they’re good to go!.
- Service: Whether you need your photos straightened, the photo scale corrected and the background removed, ‘Smartphone iD’ will handle it. All in compliance with national regulations.
- Optional Printing: You’ll receive high-quality prints on photographic paper if you choose our in-house printing service.
- Money-back Guarantee: If your photos somehow don’t turn out to be accepted, we’ll give you a full refund. No problems.
Summary
Passport photo processing is just one of those things that are necessary for the application process. But it doesn’t have to be all that difficult. Especially when you try out the ‘Smartphone iD‘ app.
FAQ
How do you know if your passport photo is rejected?
Usually, you will know if your US Passport photo has been rejected because you’ll receive a letter from the National Passport Information Center (NPIC).
This often happens because not everybody knows what the requirements are when submitting a Passport application.
So double check the requirements before taking a photo.
Do you have to pay again if your Passport photo is rejected?
Unfortunately, if your US Passport photo has been rejected because it wasn’t suitable, you’ll have to resubmit another photo. This photo must follow the guidelines given and fulfill the requirements.
Additionally, you have to do this within 90 days. If you miss this deadline you will be liable to pay extra fees.
How do I turn my photo into a Passport?
To have a successful Passport application, you must take a photo that abides by the guidelines that the US Passport authority sets out.
Including:
- Size of photo: 2″x 2″ dimension.
- Size of head: 1″ to 1″ 3/8 from chin to top of the head.
- Expression: Neutral with eyes open.
- Pose: Face the camera directly.
There are requirements for clothing as well:
- You cannot wear glasses unless you cannot remove them for medical reasons.
- Daily clothes should be worn.
- You cannot wear a uniform or camouflage clothing.
- You cannot wear a hat or head covering unless it is for medical or religious reasons.
Can I take a Passport photo with my phone?
Absolutely! In fact, it’s never been easier to do so. This is not only because of advances in technology but our app ‘Smartphone iD‘ is a great way to get started.
You can download it today and have your US Passport photos ready in no time at all!
Can I edit my Passport photo?
According to the US government’s Passport authority:
- It is not permitted to remove the background where the outline of the portrait is altered.
- You cannot digitally retouch photos to remove red eyes.
- You cannot digitally retouch photos to alter the shape of your natural portrait.
However, our app ‘Smartphone iD‘ can make changes to your photo which are permitted and abide by ICAO regulations, making the Passport photo process easy.
