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Newborn passport photo: rules for babies under 3 months

Newborn passport photo rules are looser than for older babies — closed eyes and a slightly open mouth are usually accepted for children under about 6 weeks — but the background, framing and file quality rules still apply. Here's exactly how to take one.

What is accepted for newborns

The main concession for newborns is that both eyes don't need to be fully open, and a slightly open mouth is tolerated. Everything else — plain background, no other person visible, no dummies, correct file size — is enforced exactly as for adults.

Best time to take the photo

Take it about 45 minutes after a feed. Newborns are calm, less likely to cry, and their eyes are more likely to be at least partially open. Avoid immediately after waking or when they're due a feed.

Practical setup

Use the lay-flat method: baby on their back on a plain white bedsheet, phone directly above at 40 cm. Turn off the flash — newborns' eyes are sensitive and flash creates hard shadows on the sheet.

Frequently asked questions

Can a newborn have their eyes closed in a passport photo?
Yes, for babies under about 6 weeks old most passport offices accept closed eyes. From around 2 months, the eyes should be open.
How long does a newborn passport last?
In most countries, passports issued to children under 5 are valid for 5 years, not 10. The photo must be updated at each renewal because faces change quickly.
Do I need my newborn's photo to match the birth certificate?
No. The photo is just for the passport application. It must match the current appearance of the baby, taken within the last month.

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