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Passport Photo Head Covering Rules: Religious & Medical

Religious head coverings in passport photos: rules for US, UK, Canada, Australia, NZ and Schengen. Preview free — HD download $1, 300-DPI print sheet $2

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The General Rule

Hats and head coverings are banned in passport photos worldwide — with two exceptions: religious head coverings worn daily, and medical head coverings. In both cases the full face must remain visible from chin to forehead, including both edges of the face, with no shadows cast by the covering.

Country-by-Country Rules

  • United States: religious head coverings allowed if worn daily for religious purposes — a signed statement is required; medical coverings need a signed doctor's statement; full face visible
  • United Kingdom: head coverings for religious or medical reasons allowed; the face must be fully visible with no shadows
  • Canada: religious or medical head coverings allowed; full facial features must be visible and unobstructed
  • Australia & New Zealand: religious or medical head coverings allowed; face visible from chin to top of forehead
  • Schengen (EU Visa Code): head coverings for religious reasons only; facial features must be fully visible
  • UAE (ICP): follows ICAO specifications — full face visible, no shadows or reflections

What Is Never Allowed

  • Hats, caps, beanies and baseball caps
  • Fashion headscarves or bandanas not worn for religious reasons
  • Headbands or hairbands that push hair across the face
  • Headphones or earbuds
  • Any covering that casts a shadow on the face or hides the hairline edges of the face

Tips for a Compliant Photo With a Head Covering

  • Choose a plain, single-colour covering that contrasts with the background
  • Pull the covering back so the full oval of the face — chin to forehead, edge to edge — is visible
  • Check for shadows under the covering's edge; adjust lighting, not the covering
  • Tuck hair fully under the covering so no strands cross the face

Sources

Sources: U.S. Department of State — Passport Photos (https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply/photos.html), verified 2026-07-17; GOV.UK — Guidance for photographers (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/passport-photos-guide-for-photographers/guidance-for-photographers), verified 2026-07-17; IRCC — Passport photo requirements (https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/canadian-passports/photos.html), verified 2026-07-17; Australian Passport Office — Photo guidelines (https://www.passports.gov.au/getting-passport-how-it-works/photos-and-witnesses), verified 2026-07-17; EU Visa Code Reg (EC) No 810/2009 (https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/ALL/?uri=celex%3A32009R0810), verified 2026-07-17.

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FAQ

Can I wear a hijab in a passport photo?
Yes, in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Schengen states and most other countries — provided your full face is visible from chin to forehead with no shadows. The US requires a signed statement confirming daily religious wear.
Can I wear a hat in a passport photo?
No. Hats, caps and fashion head coverings are banned everywhere. Only religious head coverings worn daily and medical head coverings are excepted.
Does a medical head covering need documentation?
In the US, yes — a signed doctor's statement. Other countries generally allow medical coverings without paperwork, but the full-face-visibility rule always applies.