ID Photos

Can You Smile in a Passport Photo? Expression Rules Explained

Can you smile in a passport photo? Neutral-expression rules for US, UK, Schengen, Japan, Korea, China. Preview free — HD download $1, 300-DPI print sheet $2

✦

Privacy note：Advanced smart enhancements show clear guidance before use. Please make sure you have permission to edit the photo.

Make Your ID Photo

40+ countries · 400+ China formats · Exact pixel output · crop-only mode for strict documents · background tools for eligible formats

The Neutral-Expression Standard

ICAO Doc 9303 and most national authorities require a neutral facial expression: mouth closed, both eyes open, face square to the camera. Biometric face-matching works best on a relaxed, neutral face — which is why exaggerated expressions are rejected.

Country-by-Country Notes

  • United States: neutral expression or a natural smile, both eyes open — a broad grin with teeth is still a common rejection cause
  • United Kingdom: neutral expression, mouth closed — no smiling
  • Schengen (EU Visa Code): neutral expression, mouth closed
  • Japan: neutral expression following ICAO Doc 9303
  • South Korea: neutral expression, mouth closed
  • China: natural, neutral expression; mouth closed, no exaggerated expressions

Expressions That Get Rejected

  • Smiling with teeth showing or mouth open
  • Laughing or raised cheeks squinting the eyes
  • Raised or furrowed eyebrows
  • Squinting or one eye partially closed
  • Frowning or exaggerated 'serious' faces
  • Head tilted, chin raised or face turned

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; EU Visa Code Reg (EC) No 810/2009 (https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/ALL/?uri=celex%3A32009R0810), verified 2026-07-17; MOFA Japan — IC Passport Photos (https://www.mofa.go.jp/mofaj/toko/passport/ic_photo.html), verified 2026-07-17; 여권안내 — Photo Specs (https://www.passport.go.kr/new/issue/photo.php), verified 2026-07-17.

Related keywords

can you smile in passport photopassport photo smilepassport photo expression rulesneutral expression passport photopassport photo teeth showingnatural smile passport photo

FAQ

Can I smile in a US passport photo?
The US State Department accepts a neutral expression or a natural smile with both eyes open — but keep the mouth closed. To be safe, aim for neutral.
Can I smile in a UK or Schengen passport photo?
No. HMPO and the EU Visa Code require a neutral expression with the mouth closed. Smiling is a listed rejection cause.
Why do authorities want a neutral expression?
Biometric facial recognition matches geometry — eye spacing, nose, jawline. Smiles and other expressions distort these measurements and reduce match accuracy.