1. The file is the wrong size or dimensions
Government portals enforce exact technical limits: a pixel size (often a square like 600×600 for US uploads, or a 35×45 mm ratio elsewhere) and a file-size window in KB. If your photo is even slightly outside that window, the upload is rejected before a human ever sees it.
The fix is to match both numbers exactly. Set the required pixel dimensions and the file-size target, export as JPEG, and confirm the result before uploading.
2. The background isn't plain enough
Most authorities require a plain white or light-grey background with no shadows, patterns, or objects behind you. Soft shadows cast on a wall are one of the most common silent rejections — the portal reads the gradient as a non-uniform background.
Stand a couple of feet away from a plain wall, face a window for even light, and avoid any shadow falling behind your head.
3. The head size or framing is off
Each country specifies how much of the frame your head must fill and where your eyes should sit. If your face is too small, too large, or off-centre, the photo fails even when the size and background are perfect.
Centre your head, keep your eyes roughly two-thirds up the frame, and leave a little space above your hair.
4. Lighting, expression, and accessories
A neutral expression with both eyes open and mouth closed is required almost everywhere. Glare on glasses, hats, headphones, or heavy shadows on one side of the face are frequent causes of rejection.
- Remove glasses if there is any glare — many countries now ban them outright.
- No hats or head coverings except for religious reasons.
- Even, front-on lighting with no hot spots or deep shadows.
5. How to get it right the first time
Take the photo against a plain wall in even light, then prepare the file to the exact spec for your destination. Our country-specific passport pages pre-set the right pixel dimensions and file-size target so you only have to upload your photo and download a compliant file.